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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Level 2 “Be Set” evacuations levels for the Flat Fire burning in central Oregon were dropped Tuesday morning, according to the state fire marshal.

The wildfire, currently 23,346 acres and 67% contained, has devastated parts of Jefferson and Deschutes counties for 12 days. 

All evacuations in both counties have been downgraded to Level 1 “Be Ready.” The latest information on evacuation zones can be found on the following Facebook pages:

Flat Fire — Facebook page from Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office
Flat Fire — Facebook page from Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office

Due to improving conditions, the Red Flag Warning that was in place over the weekend is no longer in effect.

“Today, crews will continue patrolling the fire perimeter to identify and extinguish any remaining heat and smoke. Suppression repair efforts to support recovery are also underway,” officials said. “Resources assigned to the Flat Fire remain ready to support the local district with initial attack response if new fires emerge. Firefighters are making consistent progress toward full containment.”

Authorities are also asking everyone to remain cautious in the area as crews continue to work and to allow space for firefighters to do their work.

The fire, which started on Aug. 21, has destroyed five homes and 11 other structures, while damaging two other homes and two other structures. It has threatened more than 1,457 homes as it burns four miles northeast of Sisters, fueled by tall and short grass along with brush.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined as the investigation into the Flat Fire continues. Investigators previously stated the fire sparked on private land.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.

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Aimee Plante

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