BEND, Ore. — The threat from an early season wildfire to homes on the outskirts of Bend eased Monday, as hundreds of firefighters attacked the blaze, strengthening fire lines protecting scattered rural homes and a popular outdoor recreation area.
About 50 households northwest of Bend remained under an evacuation notice after fires that erupted Saturday near Tumalo Reservoir joined to burn through an area of about 10 square miles, or 6,800 acres of heavy brush and timber. Residents of about 200 homes were allowed to return home late Sunday, but they were cautioned to remain ready to evacuate.
Although the Two Bulls fire was just 5 percent contained, a preliminary fire line encircled most of it, and crews were working to strengthen the line, particularly the east and south flanks threatening populated areas and a system of trails popular with mountain bikers, said Lisa Clark of the Central Oregon Incident Dispatch Center.
The cause remained under investigation. The most recent lighting was two weeks ago, Clark said. There is no developed campground where a campfire might have escaped. But there are plentiful roads providing easy access, and people camp in the area.
