24 Aug 2023 | 01:48 AM UTC
US: Emergency crews working to contain wildfire in Marion County, Oregon, as of late Aug. 23
Emergency crews working to contain wildfire in Marion County, Oregon, US, as of late Aug. 23. Evacuations and road closures ongoing.
Event
Crews are working to contain a wildfire burning in Marion County, Oregon, as of late Aug. 23. The fire is burning south of Mildred Road and west of Liberty Road. The fire has grown to at least 4 hectares (10 acres) as of late Aug. 23. Red Flag Warnings are in place across western Oregon due to a high wildfire risk across the area; further wildfire growth is likely in the coming hours and days.
Authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for more than 600 South Salem residents west of Liberty Road South and Jory Hill Road South. Evacuation warnings are in place across the areas surrounding the evacuation order area. Officials have established an emergency shelter for evacuated residents at Judson Middle School in Salem. South Liberty Road is closed at the intersection of South Mildred Lane, and South Ruggles Avenue is closed at the intersection of South Skyline Road.
Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
