Lincton Mountain Fire: 3:45 p.m. Update

A fire near the lower end of Lincton Road near Milton-Freewater started today and is currently estimated to be 200-300 acres in size. While not currently on Oregon Department of Forestry protected land, the fire is encroaching towards the protected area. Milton-Freewater Rural Fire District is operating in Unified Command with Oregon Department of Forestry.
The fire is moving east towards the Walla Walla River Road, but the forward progression of the fire has been slowed through utilization of air attack including helicopters and SEAT (Single Engine Air Tankers) planes. Farm equipment and dozers are also being used to stop the blaze.
Evacuations of residents in the immediate area of the fire as well as Harris Park residents have been notified to evacuate with a Level 3 evacuation notice “GO!” Residents along the South Fork of the Walla Walla River Road are currently at a Level 1 “Ready” evacuation notice.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
A Level 1 Evacuation means “BE READY” for potential evacuation. Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, monitor emergency services websites and local media outlets for information. This is the time for preparation and precautionary movement of persons with special needs, mobile property and (under certain circumstances) pets and livestock. If conditions worsen, emergency services personnel may contact you via an emergency notification system.
A Level 2 Evacuation means “BE SET” to evacuate. YOU MUST PREPARE TO LEAVE AT A MOMENTS NOTICE. This level indicates there is significant danger to your area, and residents should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or with family/friends outside of the affected area, or if choosing to remain, to be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Residents MAY have time to gather necessary items, but doing so is at their own risk. THIS MAY BE THE ONLY NOTICE THAT YOU RECEIVE. Emergency services cannot guarantee that they will be able to notify you if conditions rapidly deteriorate. Area media services will be asked to broadcast periodic updates.
A Level 3 Evacuation means “GO” Evacuate NOW - LEAVE IMMEDIATELY! Danger to your area is current or imminent, and you should evacuate immediately. If you choose to ignore this advisement, you must understand that emergency services may not be available to assist you further. DO NOT delay leaving to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home.
THIS WILL BE THE LAST NOTICE THAT YOU RECEIVE. Entry to evacuated areas may be denied until conditions are safe.
Citizens are asked to continue to use caution and adhere to regulations. The public is reminded that ODF is currently in Regulated Use Closure in Northeast Oregon and federal lands are currently under public use restrictions. Current fire restrictions for forestlands in Northeast Oregon can be found at www.bmidc.org.
http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/ is your spot for current fire information in the Blue Mountains. To report a fire, call Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch at (541) 963-7171 or dial 9-1-1.

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