The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders for areas surrounding Lake Billy Chinook due to the Flat Fire spreading in the area.

The blaze broke out on Aug. 21, approximately three miles west of Lake Billy Chinook. As of Aug. 22, it had grown to 3,300 acres, according to a release from Central Oregon Fire Information.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

A Central Oregon Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command late in the evening of August 21 to support local crews. Firefighters worked through the night to protect structures and build a fire line.

Crews plan to continue these operations and construct more fire line on August 22.

Hot and dry conditions persist across Central Oregon, sustaining current fire behavior. Smoke is expected to linger

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