Fires prompt burn bans in W. Oregon, Washington

SALEM, Ore. (AP) – Several counties in Western Oregon and Southwest Washington issued burn bans Wednesday after firefighters battled dozens of brush fires.

One of the fires reported near Stayton, Oregon Tuesday night, grew to 60 acres (24 hectares) and prompted evacuations. People were allowed to return home Wednesday.

Crews also battled a wind-driven fire near Longview, Washington.

KATU-TV reports Marion, Clackamas, Linn, Wahkiakum and Cowlitz counties issued burn bans Wednesday at least in part because of warmer-than-normal temperatures and winds throughout the region.

Campfires, fire pits and yard debris burning are also banned.

Fire officials report that their firefighters have primarily been responding to burns that got out of control because of the wind.