Portland fire crews are struggling to contain a four-alarm grass fire that has grown stronger with the wind, reports said Monday.
The blaze is burning close to Rocky Butte in the city’s northeast area, some distance from Portland’s downtown, but the fire can be seen from there, The Oregonian reported.
The fire has set several buildings ablaze close to 85th Avenue and Siskiyou Street, Portland Fire and Rescue tweeted on Monday.
Portland residents were warned to avoid the area of NE 82nd Avenue.
Homes were being evacuated on Knott Street, Portland Fire and Rescue added.
As many as 6,000 people were left without electricity amid the fire, KGW8 reported.
Numerous roads were closed — including the area of Northeast 82nd Avenue.
WATCH: Thousands left without power, evacuations taking place after grass fire spreads to homes in Portland
Oregonian reporter Kale Williams tweeted a video that showed a plume of black smoke and several pops and bangs emerging as he filmed, just before 6 p.m. PST.