Benjamin Estes and Firefighters Conclude Major Evacuation Phase of the Akawa Butte Fire
Benjamin Estes, a firefighting heavy equipment boss, highlighted the challenges of managing the Akawa Butte Fire in Deschutes County, Oregon. The fire, which burned an estimated 27,429 acres, is now 85% contained. The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office lifted all remaining evacuation notices on Monday afternoon, allowing residents to return home as the incident transitioned to recovery operations. Estes noted that night operations were particularly difficult due to low visibility and intense storms, which pushed crews back on their heels. However, old burn scars from previous years provided a blessing by reducing available fuels and helping establish control lines. While more than 1,000 firefighters have been released to other assignments, approximately 250 personnel remain to complete post-fire operations. As the fire continues to be managed by the New Mexico Type 3 Incident Management Team, officials noted that while most roads have reopened, some Forest Service roads remain closed for debris clearance. Residents should expect to see emergency vehicles in the air quality advisory zone as smoke continues to affect the Portland metro area.