SALEM, Ore. — Fire crews on Wednesday night have contained a wildfire that broke out earlier in the afternoon in Salem prompting evacuation orders for hundreds of residents on the south side of the city.
All evacuation orders have been downgraded. All Level 3 (Go Now) evacuation areas have been lowered to a Level 2 (Be Set) notice, all Level 2 evacuation areas have been downgraded to a Level 1 (Be Ready), according to Salem Emergency Manager Joe Hutchinson.
The fire started in a field off Liberty Road just before 3 p.m. on Wednesday. The Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized multiple aerial firefighting resources to help crews on the ground, including two air tankers and a helicopter.
Firefighters contained the fire around 7:15 p.m. It destroyed two "outbuildings" and burned around 20 acres, the sheriff's office said. No injuries have been reported.
Crews will stay in the area through Thursday morning to monitor "fire behavior and weather activity," the sheriff's office said.
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.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.