Portland Awakens to Smoke-Filled Morning as Wildfire Nears

Portland Awakens to Smoke-Filled Morning as Wildfire NearsPortland Awakens to Smoke-Filled Morning as Wildfire Nears Portland, Oregon awoke to a hazy and smoke-filled morning on Monday as a fast-moving wildfire approached the city’s southwestern suburbs. The blaze, dubbed the “Colson Fire,” has already consumed thousands of acres and is threatening homes and businesses in the area. Residents in the affected neighborhoods reported waking up to a thick layer of smoke and ash covering their cars and properties. Visibility was poor, with the air heavy with the acrid smell of burning vegetation. “It’s like something out of a movie,” said one resident who evacuated her home early Monday morning. “The smoke was so thick, I could barely see.” The fire, which started in the early hours of Sunday, has spread rapidly, fanned by strong winds and dry conditions. Firefighters have been battling the blaze throughout the night, but the strong gusts have made it difficult to contain. As of Monday morning, the fire was burning just a few miles from the Portland city limits. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for several neighborhoods in the southwestern part of the city, including West Linn, Tualatin, and Tigard. “We are asking residents to follow the evacuation orders and stay out of the area,” said Portland Fire Chief Sara Boone. “The situation is very volatile, and we need to ensure the safety of the public.” Schools, businesses, and roads in the affected areas have been closed as the smoke and fire continue to spread. Public health officials are also urging residents to remain indoors and limit their exposure to the harmful smoke. The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert for Portland and the surrounding areas. The smoke is expected to worsen throughout the day, and residents are advised to stay home if possible. The Colson Fire is the latest in a series of wildfires that have ravaged the Pacific Northwest in recent months. The dry conditions and strong winds have created the perfect conditions for blazes to spread quickly and uncontrollably. Authorities are urging residents to be prepared for the possibility of further evacuations as the fire continues to burn. They are also asking for the public’s help in reporting any suspicious activity or potential fire hazards.