The Egley complex of fires has grown to an estimated 30,000 acres, threatening at least 30 homes and closing much of the Malheur National Forest.

KGW photo

The wildfire caused a yellow haze overnight that could be seen for miles.

In the community of Hines, officials prepared to go door-to-door, if necessary, to warn residents to evacuate.

The lightning-caused fires -- fueled by high temperatures, low humidity and brisk breezes -- began Friday and were reported at less than 3 percent contained on Tuesday.

The fires were moving to the south and east, toward the communities of Burns and Hines. With the eastern edge of the fire only 12 miles from the two towns, Governor Kulongoski declared the fire an emergency conflagration, allowing the state fire marshall to send resources to help protect homes, buildings, and other structures.

Three task forces made up of firefighters and equipment from Marion, Linn, and Deschutes counties arrived early Tuesday morning. They include about 40 personnel and 17 firefighting vehicles. 

A fourth task force from Polk County was also called to help. Fire officials said the additional support is important, and with so many members of the local fire departments already in the field fighting the wildfires, crews were already stretched to the limits.

Crews planned to set fire to unburned areas south of the complex, eliminating the fuel the flames need to advance. The team has two small air tankers, two helicopters, numerous bulldozers and more than 500 firefighters camped out at the Harney County Fairgrounds.

On Tuesday, firefighters also planned to bulldoze a wide firebreak west of Burns and Hines.

The fires closed several campgrounds in southeast Oregon. On Monday night, U.S. 20 west of Burns was closed and 20 rural residents were evacuated.

The road was reopened on Tuesday, although cars were being guided through smoky areas.

The complex had about 18 fires and now has about 12, said Jeree Mills, with the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center in Portland. Some had burned together and others were out.

"It's continuing to burn. Even at night it's not slowing down," Mills said.