MALHEUR COUNTY, Ore — Update: As of Monday, July 22 at 9: 24 p.m., I-84 is closed again due to the fires. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) said the closure will extend through the next three to five days.
"I-84 between Pendleton and Ontario will close for the next three to five nights to manage the Durkee Fire currently burning west of the interstate. The closures will begin at 7 p.m. with all lanes open again by 5 a.m. the following day. If other highways need to be closed in the area, they will be closed during the same time," stated ODOT.
The state is encouraging travelers to delay trips or plan alternative routes. additionally, do not rely on GPS because it might not be up to date.
Update: As of Monday, July 22
Interstate 84 has reopened for westbound traffic, after the Durkee Fire prompted the highway to shut down. However evacuations are still in place.
"Level 3 (GO NOW) evacuation levels remain in effect for Huntington and the Rye Valley area. With thunderstorms forecasted late this afternoon, the potential for high winds and unpredictable fire weather, we anticipate the evacuation levels will remain unchanged throughout the day," the Baker Sheriff's Office Stated.
The Red Cross of Idaho and East Oregon and their partners have opened an evacuation shelter in Ontario to those needing shelter from the Durkee Fire.
The Red Cross is set up at the Malheur County Fairgrounds (795 N.W. 9th Street) and plans on providing a safe place to stay, meals, information and emotional support for those in need. There is no room for livestock or RV's, they stated.
Everyone is welcome to the Red Cross shelter. All services are free and no reservations are required.
Update: As of Sunday, July 21 at 9 p.m., I-84 is closed between Baker City (Exit 302) and Ontario (Exit 374). Closure is expected through the night.
New and updated evacuations from Baker County Sheriff's Office. The office said at around 7 p.m., storms moved through the area, causing the fire to move. Gusts of 50 mph blew fire in different directions. Also, the fire has the potential to move across I-84.
New Evacuations as of Sunday July 21 at 7:10 p.m.
"Level 3 evacuation (GO NOW) has been issued to Huntington and the surrounding area. Wind speeds have increased, which may push the fire toward town. For Huntington residents that need transportation, a bus will be available at Lions Park. Level 3 evacuation (GO NOW) has been issued to Rye Valley and the surrounding area," stated the Baker County Sheriff's Office.
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Strong winds and dry thunderstorms are expected for this afternoon and evening.
If you need shelter accommodations, call Malheur County Dispatch at (541) 473-5125. Dispatch is very busy. Do not call for anything other than shelter accommodations or emergencies," stated the MCSO.
Update: As of 3 p.m., on July "The Durkee Fire has continued to advance south. A Level 3 (GO NOW) evacuation has been extended into rural areas of Willowcreek and Vale in Malheur County. Huntington remains at a Level 1 (BE READY)," stated a social media post.
People can get more information here.
The Malheur County Sheriff's Office (MCSO), is advising people in certain areas around Vale to evacuate. The evacuation is a Level Three, which means leave now.
"Residents from 10th Ave East south to Vale, from Vale around Foothill Dr. to Heinz Blvd, to Jacobsen Gulch Rd to I84 are advised to evacuate. Please be advised if you live within the Cities of Ontario or Vale, or within irrigated cropland areas this does not apply to you," stated the office.
People in these areas should leave immediately.