Oregon crews race to douse fire in one of the world's tallest trees

Firefighters are working to extinguish a fire that engulfed one of the world's largest trees in the Oregon forest. The fire has spread quickly due to high winds and dry conditions, threatening nearby communities. Officials have evacuated the area and are asking residents to remain calm as they work to control the situation.

The fire, believed to be started by a lightning strike, has grown to over 50 acres. Firefighters are working to control the blaze's spread and prevent it from jumping the river that runs through the forest, as well as protecting nearby homes and structures. The tree, known as the Hyperion Tree, stands at a staggering 380 feet, making it the world's tallest.

Efforts to save the tree itself are underway, as it is of significant ecological and tourist-based importance to the region. The state's governor has issued a statement, along with local tourism boards, expressing the tragedy of this potential loss and the plans they have to memorialize the tree in the coming months.