PORTLAND, Ore. — All evacuations levels have dropped to below Level 3 "GO NOW" for the Elk Lane Fire near Madras in Jefferson County on Sunday morning, fire officials said.
As of August 11, the fire is approximately 5,176 acres and 65% contained. The fire was first report around 7:30 p.m. on August 4th, prompting evacuations for several areas in Jefferson County.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized funds to help fight the fire on Tuesday evening. An additional $985,111 will be available to the state through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Post Fire to lessen future wildfires and hazards afterwards, such as floods or erosion.
The fire threatened several homes in Madras, as well as fishing streams and spawning sites, irrigation, flood control and cultural resources, according to FEMA.
A Red Cross shelter had been set up Madras High School and at Jefferson County Fairgrounds Parking Lot for animals. Visit the Facebook page for Jefferson County Sheriff's Office or Central Oregon Fire Info's website for up-to-date evacuation information.
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office said fire plans will be dipping in and out of Lake Simtustu and are asking that people avoid the area.
Gov. Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire Monday afternoon. Two task forces from Lincoln and Polk counties that were already position in Central Oregon began assisting with the fire. The Oregon State Fire Marshal brought additional resources Monday morning to assist.
“The two task forces we pre-positioned in Central Oregon on Friday have been busy helping several local agencies respond to wildfires including two fires that sparked moments after they arrived,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Pre-positioning these resources has been an extremely valuable tool as our agency focuses on being proactive in keeping fires small and away from communities.”
On Sunday night, the fire initially grew to roughly 3,000 acres. The fire sparked from gusty winds and a massive thunderstorm in the Madras area, according to Jefferson County Fire District 1. High temperatures are expected throughout Monday with wind gusts up 18 mph. Due to it, the Oregon State Fire Marshall said "there isn’t much relief in sight for improved fire weather conditions over the next week."
Here's what evacuation levels mean
Level 1 Notice - Be Ready: Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area and monitor local media outlets for information. Residents with special needs should take note and begin making arrangements to evacuate. Evacuations at this time are voluntary.
Level 2 Notice - Be Set: This level indicates there is significant danger to your area, and residents should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or outside of the affected area, or if choosing to remain, to be ready at a moment's notice. Emergency services cannot guarantee that they will be able to notify you if conditions rapidly deteriorate.
Level 3 Notice - Go Now: Danger to your area is current or imminent, and you should leave immediately. Listen to local media and watch for emergency personnel who may be coming by to give further instructions regarding the evacuation.
