Rowena Fire in Oregon Burns 3,800 Acres Destroys 49 Homes

The Rowena Fire in northern Oregon has burned over 3,800 acres and remains uncontained, prompting extensive evacuation orders affecting thousands of residents across Wasco County. Firefighters face a challenging fight against a fast-moving blaze, with 217 personnel and aircraft actively working to contain the fire that has destroyed at least 49 homes, according to officials, though some sources report 20 homes lost. The fire, confirmed to be human-caused, has triggered a state request for FEMA assistance, which has been granted, as communities grapple with the destruction and ongoing recovery efforts. Officials have emphasized the trauma experienced by both residents and first responders, with a community meeting held to share updates and support. Highway 30 remains closed due to the fire, and smoky conditions have severely reduced visibility in the area. Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions closely, as stronger winds may impact firefighting efforts and fire behavior in the coming days.