The Durkee Fire continues to rage in Eastern Oregon as its size grew overnight to 268,492 acres, or 419 square miles, despite rainfall Wednesday evening.
Officials say the rain that fell over parts of Baker County was a “godsend,” but the largest active wildfire in the U.S. remains 0% contained as of Thursday morning.
Baker County officials said “it is anticipated that there will be a reduction in the evacuation levels” on Thursday due to the previous night’s rainfall. Updates can be found on the social media pages for the Baker County Sheriff’s Office and the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office.
Fire crews expected “extreme fire behavior and growth” Wednesday as the area was threatened by severe thunderstorms and wind gusts of 70-75 mph. A Red Flag Warning and Flash Flood Watch was issued as a precaution.