Multiple evacuation orders were issued on Friday for a 200-acre brush fire burning on Priceboro Drive outside of Harrisburg. The Priceboro Fire, located in a field 1 mile north of Mount Tom and 8 miles northeast of Eugene, has prompted level 3 (go now) evacuations for all residents of Mount Tom. Additionally, a level 2 (be prepared to go) evacuation has been issued for all residents on Coleman Road east of Interstate 5 by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.
The fire was first reported just before 3:15 p.m. on Friday, and the cause is currently unknown.
To assist affected residents, an emergency shelter has been set up at the Linn County Fairgrounds in Albany, along with livestock stables. At least 60 homes have been evacuated, but crews were able to save one cabin and stop the fire from reaching a nearby subdivision.
Throughout Friday night, firefighting efforts were focused on containing the active burning on the edges of the fire and extinguishing smaller fires started by embers. Firefighters also established dozer lines to prevent the fire from spreading further to the south.
“We’ve made significant progress with the initial attack and overnight crews, but this isn’t over yet,” said Oregon Department of Forestry District Forester Chris Cline. “We want to hold this fire where it’s at, so we need to dig in around the fire before the mid-day heat sets in, which creates the greatest potential for increased fire behavior and spread.”
Residents can expect to see smoke and aircraft over the fire throughout Saturday, and handline is being placed along steep and rocky outcroppings by crews.
To assist with the growing fire, two task forces were mobilized on Friday by the Oregon State Fire Marshal and sent to Linn County. This marks the third immediate response mobilization activated in a week.
Unified management for the firefighting efforts is being held by a Type-3 Incident Team and the Oregon Department of Forestry’s South Cascade District. In addition to these teams, the Oregon State Fire Marshal, crews from the Oregon Department of Forestry, local fire districts, forest landowners, and private contractors are all supporting the suppression efforts.
“We can’t thank our partners enough,” expressed Cline. ”We need a lot of crews and resources to get around this fire and dig in, and we’re very thankful for all the support we received.”
While the smoke from the fire is visible from Interstate 5, there are currently no highway closures. However, individuals in the area can check for updated road information on the Oregon Department of Transportation website. For questions about evacuation levels, shelters, or for those in need of assistance, a helpline is available at 541-812-9211.
Weather conditions are expected to remain hot and dry throughout the weekend, with the possibility of lightning in some parts of the state. The Oregon State Fire Marshal advises taking extra fire precautions to avoid sparking additional wildfires.
Abigail Landwehr, an outdoors journalism intern for the Statesman Journal, contributed to this report. She can be reached at [email protected].
Where can displaced residents find shelter and accommodations for their livestock during the wildfire
Ile we have the advantage of cooler temperatures and calmer winds. Conditions could change quickly, so we urge residents in the affected areas to stay vigilant and follow evacuation orders.”
As of this morning, the fire is still active and has grown to approximately 200 acres. Firefighters from multiple agencies, including the Oregon Department of Forestry, are working together to contain the blaze. Aircrafts have also been deployed to assist in the firefighting efforts.
The evacuation orders remain in place for the safety of residents. Level 3 evacuations mean that residents should leave immediately and not wait for further instructions. Level 2 evacuations mean that residents should be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, but no information is currently available. Firefighters will continue their efforts to suppress the fire and protect structures in the area. The progress made overnight is promising, but the situation is still not completely under control.
Residents who have been displaced by the fire can find shelter at the Linn County Fairgrounds in Albany. The fairgrounds have also arranged for livestock stables to accommodate animals. The support and assistance from the community have been crucial in providing relief for affected residents.
It is essential for everyone in the area to stay informed and follow instructions from local authorities. The safety of residents and firefighters is the top priority, and collaboration from the community is crucial in managing this wildfire. As the situation develops, updates will be provided to ensure the well-being of all those affected.
Oh no, this is so worrying! I hope everyone stays safe and the firefighters are able to contain the wildfire quickly.