SISTERS, OR -- Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest officials have temporarily closed federal lands surrounding the Akawana Fire, burning southwest of Lake Billy Chinook. The 50-acre area closure includes the U.S. Forest Service Perry South and Monty Campgrounds. 

As of Friday morning, the Akawana Fire had burned 2,065 acres; it remains 44% contained and is completely lined. Fire managers say suppression costs are now close to $950,000. Level Two evacuation notices were reduced to Level One for the Three Rivers subdivision, Thursday evening. However, about 262 homes in Forest Park, Air Park, Rim Park and outlying areas remain at Level Two, which means residents need to be ready to leave at a moment's notice. 

The fire was first spotted Tuesday afternoon. Consistent cloud cover and a trace of rain calmed fire behavior allowing firefighters to make progress on Thursday.