Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect that the fire is 75% lined — meaning firefighters have dug trenches around 75% of the blaze. Wildfires are lined before they can be contained.
This story has been updated with more information about the four people who suffered from heat-related illnesses during fire suppression efforts.
As of 9:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 9, the Lee Falls Fire in southwest Washington County near Forest Grove has grown, and is now estimated to cover 280 acres, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.
The fire is now 75% lined, and crews will continue to work on lining the fire throughout the day.
All of Cherry Grove and a large area northwest of Sain Creek have been given Level 3 evacuation orders. A Level 3 evacuation order means danger is imminent in the area and leave immediately. Do not delay to collect belongings. Non-residents are not allowed in the area and residents should not return to their homes.
According to the Oregon Department of Emergency Management , 408 structures and 627 residents reside within the Level 3 area. It is unclear how many structures, if any, have been lost to the blaze.
Lower evacuation orders are also in place west of Henry Hagg Lake as of 11:15 a.m. Aug. 9. A Level 1 Evacuation means those in the affected area should be aware of danger in the area and prepared to leave. Residents should begin to move people with special needs, mobile property and potentially livestock or pets.
OEM reports that 138 structures and 293 people reside within the Level 1 evacuation areas.
The fire was first reported at about 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, and grew quickly, covering more than 100 acres by 2 p.m. During the initial attack, two firefighters, one community member and one contractor suffered from heat-related illnesses, according to the fire department. The firefighters were treated on scene, and the community member chose to drive themselves to receive additional treatment.
Authorities say that shifting winds impacted the movement of the fire, pushing the blaze south and southeast, as well as into the tree canopy. Several spot fires started south of the fire as a result, according to the fire department. The fire spotted across the Tualatin River and threatened homes in Cherry Grove.
Firefighters with ODF and the Gaston Rural Fire District worked overnight to contain the fire.
Displaced community members can go to New Life Fellowship Christian Church, located at 202 Church St. in Gaston, for temporary shelter. The American Red Cross is assisting with shelter response, and community members can call 1-800-733-2767 or 503-284-1234 for updates and information regarding pets. Pet owners should bring crates and other pet supplies. The Westside Commons, formerly the Washington County Fairgrounds, is open for displaced livestock and horses.
While firefighters attempt to extinguish the fire, Henry Hagg Lake is closed so planes can access the water. Additionally, Scoggins Valley Road is closed between Old Highway 47 and West Shore Drive. Washington County added that Patton Valley Road is closed from Bates Road to Cherry Grove due to the fire.
Forest Grove Fire Department has requested that drivers avoid the fire area in general to keep roads clear for emergency vehicles.
The Hillsboro Water Department has assisted fire suppression efforts by filling fire trucks with water, according to the department. As a result of increased hydrant use, Hillsboro Water's upper-system customers — those who live in western Washington County between Forest Grove and Cherry Grove and are served by Hillsboro's original water line — may see impacts.
Upper-system customers can expect discolored water or low water pressure, and are encouraged to flush all taps for 10 minutes to clear the pipes, as well as unscrew and clean any sediment from faucet aerators. Additionally, upper-system customers should avoid running washing machines or dishwashers if they see changes to their water.
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