Hundreds of attendees of the Rainbow Family Gathering are facing eviction in Northern California, while wildfires continue to threaten homes in Oregon. The National Forest System issued eviction notices to protect resources and address fire safety concerns, as the Darlene 3 wildfire near Bend expands and prompts evacuations.
Eviction of Rainbow Family Gathering in California and Oregon Wildfire Updates
Rainbow Family Gathering Eviction
In Plumas National Forest, Northern California, over 500 attendees of the Rainbow Family Gathering have been instructed to vacate the area by Wednesday, or face fines up to $5,000 or six months in jail. The National Forest System issued this directive to protect natural, tribal, and cultural resources, as well as address fire safety and public health concerns.
The annual gathering, expected to attract about 10,000 people, lacks the necessary special use permit for events exceeding 75 participants. National Forest officials, concerned about potential fire hazards and environmental impacts, noted that attendees had already begun activities like digging latrines and compost pits, which could harm local vegetation.
Oregon Wildfire Updates
The Darlene 3 wildfire in La Pine, Oregon, has prompted the evacuation of hundreds of homes near Bend, known for its outdoor activities. The wind-driven fire has expanded to nearly 4 sq miles and was 30% contained as of Wednesday. Evacuations and alerts impacted 1,100 homes and businesses.
Central Oregon Fire Management Service utilized dozers to create control lines. An evacuation center was established at a local high school, and animals were sheltered at La Pine Rodeo Grounds. Stronger winds forecasted later in the week posed a continued threat.
Elsewhere, wildfires in New Mexico and central California have led to significant evacuations and damages. The Fresno June Lightning Complex in California, ignited by remnants of Tropical Storm Alberto, covered approximately 11 sq miles with 20% containment, following over a thousand lightning strikes.
