US: Authorities working to contain wildfire in central Oregon, as of early Sept. 9

Emergency crews are working to contain a wildfire burning in parts of central Oregon, as of early Sept. 9. The Rail Ridge Fire broke out Sept. 2 due to lightning around 11 km (7 miles) south of Dayville in southwestern Grant County and has spread to parts of neighboring Crook and Wheeler counties. As of early Sept. 9, the fire has grown to around 54,660 hectares (135,067 acres) in size and is seven percent contained. Around 739 firefighting personnel are on site tackling the blaze. The fire broke out amid windy and dry conditions; further wildfire growth is possible over the coming hours and days.

Authorities have issued Level 3 Go Now evacuation orders affecting more than 300 people across parts of Crook, Grant, and Wheeler counties. Level 2 Get Set and Level 1 Be Ready evacuation warnings have been issued for surrounding areas; full details on the locations of evacuation orders can be found here. Several roads are closed in the vicinity of the fire and authorities have issued closures for areas of forest in the vicinity.

Depending on the progression of the wildfire, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities may close additional routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities depending on fire activity and the needs of response operators. Residents' return will probably disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Power outages are likely in affected areas. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.