A wildfire in central Oregon burned through 23,000 acres in less than a day on Friday, June 23. The Boxcar Fire was burning away from Maupin most of the day, but later it started burning toward the town, threatening buildings, a news report said.
A level 1 evacuation order was issued, indicating people should be ready to leave if necessary, the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office said. Campers in the area were asked to leave, though the campgrounds had not been officially closed. Highway 197 from the junction with Highway 97 to Maupin was also closed due to the fire.
The fire was 10 percent contained, and officials believed it was sparked by a lightning strike.
The Boxcar Fire was one of several that started burning on Friday. The South Junction, Jack Knife and Graham fires had triggered evacuations and closed roads. Credit: Wasco County Sheriff’s Office via Storyful