Milepost 97 Fire near Canyonville swells to 1,650 acres, evacuations ordered

by | Jul 26, 2019 | Featured, News

Share This Article

In what seems to be a regular occurrence in Oregon every summer now, the news is reporting yet another raging wildfire. The Milepost 97 Fire was originally reported around 10 p.m. Wednesday night burning about 750 acres of steep, rocky terrain southeast of Canyonville in less than 24 hours. Reported as of Friday morning by the Douglas Forest Protective Association has now doubled in size and swelled to around 1,650 acres. As a result of very hot temperatures, low relative humidity, and gusty winds, the fire made grew significantly larger Thursday afternoon.

Due to the severity of the fire, being a Level three ("Go now") evacuation orders were also issued by the Douglas County Sheriff's office. Three homes in the 100 to 300 block of Ritchie Road have been evacuated, which reside along the southern edge of the fire.

“We strongly urge residents to leave their homes in the affected area as fire officials have determined there is a significant public safety risk,” said Brad O’Dell, a spokesman for the sheriff’s office, in a press release.

At this time over 200 firefighters are currently on the scene working to fight the fire, as well as additional hand crews expected to arrive on Friday. Due to road access being minimal in the area, this has forced firefighters to hike in and unfortunately is preventing engines and dozers from accessing the fire.

The smoke has also carried over to Ashland, Grants Pass, Medford and other Southern Oregon towns resulting in very unhealthy air. Folks who have heart and lung diseases, older adults and children should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion, according to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. It's been advised also for anyone else to reduce their activity.

At this time, the Oregon Department of Transportation has reported that Interstate 5 remains open in both directions, although the off-ramp at Exit 95, the Canyon Creek exit, has been closed because of the fire.

Due to rapidly changing conditions such as smoke limited visibility, and firefighters in the area, travelers on Interstate 5 are asked to remain cautious.


Share This Article

Written By Tyler James

Tyler James, founder of That Oregon Life, is a true Oregon native whose love for his state runs deep. Since the inception of the blog in 2013, his unbridled passion for outdoor adventures and the natural beauty of Oregon has been the cornerstone of his work. As a father to two beautiful children, Tyler is always in pursuit of new experiences to enrich his family’s life. He curates content that not only reflects his adventures but also encourages others to set out and create precious memories in the majestic landscapes of Oregon. Tyler's vision and guidance are integral to his role as publisher and editor, shaping the blog into a source of inspiration for exploring the wonders of Oregon.

Related Articles

This Charming Pumpkin Patch In Oregon Doubles As A Country Store Straight Out Of A Fall Fairytale

This Charming Pumpkin Patch In Oregon Doubles As A Country Store Straight Out Of A Fall Fairytale

Fall is finally here, and with it comes all the cozy traditions we wait for all year long: crisp mornings, golden leaves, and pumpkin-flavored everything. If you’re looking for the perfect spot to celebrate the season, Yesteryear Pumpkin Patch and Country Store in...

Portland Man Found Guilty in Smith Rock Mass Shooting Plot

Portland Man Found Guilty in Smith Rock Mass Shooting Plot

BEND, Ore. — A Deschutes County jury has found 41-year-old Samson Garner guilty of plotting a mass shooting at Smith Rock State Park’s Craggin’ Classic climbing festival in 2023, Central Oregon Daily News reported. The unanimous verdict, delivered Thursday, convicted...

Two Oregon Towns Named Among America’s Best Fall Getaways

Two Oregon Towns Named Among America’s Best Fall Getaways

If you’re dreaming of a cozy autumn getaway surrounded by crisp air and colorful leaves, you won’t have to travel far—Oregon has you covered. A new report from vacation rental company HomeToGo places two Oregon towns among the best destinations in the country for fall...

Charlie Kirk Shot During Event at Utah Valley University

Charlie Kirk Shot During Event at Utah Valley University

Charlie Kirk, executive director of Turning Point USA (TPUSA) and a prominent conservative activist, was shot Wednesday while hosting an event at Utah Valley University. Video circulating on social media shows Kirk being struck while speaking under a tent in the...

X