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The Lookout Fire, a rapidly-growing blaze in Lane County, has grown to more than 1200 acres and prompted Level 3 evacuation notices.
With 0% containment, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has taken action by invoking the Emergency Conflagration Act to bolster resources for firefighting efforts.
The Lookout Fire is burning near Willamette National Forest to the north of McKenzie Bridge.
As temperatures reach extreme levels and gusts of wind fan the flames, firefighters are working hard against this massive wildfire.
Operation Section Chief Nick Peters stated that there was potential for further fire growth due to red flag conditions which refer to severe weather conditions that can increase the risk of wildfires.
🔥🔥 ⚠️ DEVELOPING! Oregon: Level 1 and Level 2 evacuation orders have been issued by Lane County for the Bedrock Fire.
For an interactive map where you can enter your address and verify if you are within the evacuation zone visit https://t.co/z8GsqS4Lh2 or call 541-682-4179… pic.twitter.com/5VX1k3nBjy
— {Matt} $XRPatriot (@matttttt187) August 14, 2023
To support those affected by these mandatory evacuations, The Red Cross opened a shelter at Lowell High School (65 Pioneer Street).
In addition, a non-emergency call center with extended hours through 1 am on Sunday and reopening at 9 am on Monday is available at 541-682-2055.
To combat the growing fire danger, 350 personnel have been mobilized under Peters’ direction.
He outlined plans for containing the fire along its northern side near Lookout Creek as well as reinforcing existing containment efforts around Lookout Ridge on its eastern side before moving westward towards McKenzie Bridge and then back up along Lookout Ridge towards its source.
Meanwhile State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple expressed her concern over the next few days given predicted red flag conditions which could stoke further fire growth.
These predictions place heightened pressure on Governor Kotek’s decision to mobilize more resources in order to prevent further damage from occurring in Lane County.
