Alder Springs Fire latest: Evacuation orders drop to Level 1 as rain gives wildland firefighters help

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Much-needed rain in the forecast is giving wildland fire crews a fighting chance to increase containment of the Alder Springs Fire, resulting in authorities to change evacuation levels.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has dropped Level 3 “Go Now” and Level 2 “Get Set” evacuation levels as firefighters mopped up and secured fire lines, according to Central Oregon Fire.

Only Level 1 “Get Ready” evacuations are in place in Jefferson County for the following zones:

• CRR11
• CRR10N
• CRR10S
• CRR12
• CRR8
• CRR7
• CRR6

Starting on Monday, the Alder Springs Fire has been burning through timber, tall grass and brush and remains at 3,278 acres, roughly just over 5 square miles, with about 68% containment, according to Central Oregon Fire officials.

Meanwhile, the Prineville Bureau of Land Management has lifted closures put into place as a result of the fire for the following trailheads and trails: Steelhead Falls, Otter Bench, Scout Camp.

However, officials warn there’s still fire traffic in the area.

The fire was human-caused, which remains under investigation, according to authorities.