Driver crash into power pole sparks East Evans Creek Fire near Shady Cove

A fire that began Friday afternoon after a driver crashed into a power pole outside Shady Cove has grown to 3,628 acres, according to state wildfire officials cited by KATU.

The East Evans Creek Fire was burning about seven miles west of Shady Cove as of Sunday night. Some Level 3, or "GO NOW," evacuation orders were in place around the fire area.

Firefighters worked through the night Sunday and used favorable weather to strengthen fire lines, KATU reported. An overnight infrared flight showed the fire had grown by nearly 500 acres from the previous estimate because of increased activity within the lines.

Officials said crews held the lines to the northeast and south, where many homes are located. The Oregon Department of Forestry’s Southwest Oregon District said weather remained a concern, with instability in the forecast raising the chance of thunderstorms across southern Oregon and the risk of erratic wind and new fire starts.

An evacuation shelter for people and domestic pets was open at Hanby Middle School in Gold Hill. Horses could be taken to the Expo Center on Penninger Road in Central Point, and livestock owners were directed to call 541-776-7206.

Wildfires can move fast, and evacuation orders can change with little notice. People in affected areas should follow local emergency updates and confirm shelter options before traveling.