The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office announced Wednesday it would be sending 12 firefighting crews from Oregon to help fight the wildfires raging in Southern California.

Several wildfires began in the Los Angeles area Tuesday and grew quickly, fueled by powerful winds. The fires destroyed more than 1,000 structures and killed at least two people by Wednesday morning.

Oregon is sending a total of 240 firefighters and 60 engines to help protect California communities threatened by the fire. Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said the crews come from Clackamas, Clatsop, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Marion, Multnomah, Washington, and Yamhill counties, as well as from Central Oregon and the Rogue Valley,

“Oregon and California have a strong partnership supporting each other,” Ruiz-Temple said. “We both understand that fire does not recognize map lines, and we are ready to help each other whenever there is a need. During our historic 2024 wildfire season, California sent us help and in their time of need, we are working as fast as possible to lend them support during this emergency.”

California fire officials said they continued to see extreme fire behavior Wednesday morning, and expected little relief as high winds were forecast to continue through Thursday.

Firefighters and air resources will continue to work to protect the community and infrastructures and gain control over fire containment.

Ruiz-Temple said they will continue to monitor the California wildfire situation and will could more requests depending on how it progresses.

News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2025/01/08/oregon-sending-crews-help-battle-los-angeles-area-wildfires/