Wildfire in Willamette National Forest Triggers Evacuations and Emergency Declaration
LANE COUNTY, Ore. – A wildfire in the Willamette National Forest, located north of McKenzie Bridge, has prompted Level 3 evacuations and an “Emergency Conflagration” declaration by Governor Kotek on Sunday. The fire, known as the Lookout Fire, rapidly spread due to extreme temperatures and gusty winds on Sunday afternoon, according to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
Governor Kotek’s emergency declaration allows the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize firefighters and equipment at the state level to protect life and property. Mariana Ruiz-Temple, the Oregon State Fire Marshal, expressed concern about the dry and windy conditions in Lane County, stating that the next few days are critical with continued red flag conditions. She emphasized the coordination of resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System to assist local fire service partners.
For the latest updates on the wildfire and an interactive map, residents can visit the designated website. As of 10:30 p.m., “Go Now” orders are in effect for several areas, including Taylor Road, North Bank Road, all areas north of Highway 126 between Blue River Reservoir Road and Drury Lane, Mona Campground, Lookout Campground, and HJ Andrews Experimental Forest headquarters. Additionally, residents in areas south of Highway 126 from Blue River Reservoir Road east to Foley Ridge Road and McKenzie River Drive have been issued a Level 1 (B Ready) evacuation notice.
Authorities urge residents in the affected areas to follow evacuation orders promptly and stay updated on the situation through official channels. The safety of individuals and protection of property remain the top priorities as firefighters work tirelessly to contain the Lookout Fire.
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What measures has Governor Kotek taken in response to the Lookout Fire in Willamette National Forest?
Dramatic Wildfire Sparks Urgent Evacuations and Emergency Declaration in Willamette National Forest
LANE COUNTY, Ore. – Brace yourselves as a raging wildfire ignites in the beautiful Willamette National Forest, just north of McKenzie Bridge, triggering Level 3 evacuations and an “Emergency Conflagration” declaration by none other than Governor Kotek on Sunday. Named the Lookout Fire, this menacing inferno rapidly engulfed the area due to scorching temperatures and relentless gusts of wind on Sunday afternoon, leaving authorities and residents on high alert, according to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
In response to Governor Kotek’s emergency declaration, the Oregon State Fire Marshal has been granted the power to assemble a massive force of firefighters and equipment at the state level, aiming to safeguard both lives and property. Mariana Ruiz-Temple, the Oregon State Fire Marshal, expressed grave concern about the prevailing dry and windy conditions in Lane County. She stressed that the coming days are crucial, as red flag conditions persist. Furthermore, Ruiz-Temple underscored the importance of coordinated resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System, a vital network designed to support local fire service partners.
For the most up-to-date information on the wildfire and an interactive map, concerned residents are urged to visit the dedicated website. Presently, “Go Now” orders are in effect for several areas, including Taylor Road, North Bank Road, all regions north of Highway 126 between Blue River Reservoir Road and Drury Lane, as well as Mona Campground, Lookout Campground, and HJ Andrews Experimental Forest headquarters. Additionally, residents residing in areas south of Highway 126, spanning from Blue River Reservoir Road east to Foley Ridge Road and McKenzie River Drive, have received a Level 1 (B Ready) evacuation notice.
Authorities are imploring affected residents to promptly comply with evacuation orders and stay informed through official channels. The safety of individuals and the protection of property remain paramount as tireless firefighters battle to contain the relentless fury of the Lookout Fire.
Copyright 2023 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.
