Residents between Oregon City and Canby are facing Level 3 "Go Now" evacuations as a wildfire burns close to Canby along Highway 99 East. The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office has shut down the northbound lanes of the highway, impacting the stretch between South Haines Road and Canemah Road, KOIN reports. The Level 3 evacuation notices, indicating an immediate danger, affect residents from South End Road from Highway 99E to Reflection Lane, extending west to Milepost 16 on Highway 99E and south to South End Road.
Emergency shelters have been swiftly established to aid the displaced community and their animals. The Clackamas Event Center parking lot on 4th Avenue in Canby is now serving as a temporary evacuation point. For those in need of accommodating their animals and livestock, the Washington County Fairgrounds is currently offering shelter, as detailed by KPTV. Details on the inception of the fire or its size have yet to be reported.
Understanding the evacuation levels is crucial for community members facing the wildfire threat. As broken down by KGW, Level 1 Notice, "Be Ready," suggests residents should stay informed and prepare in case evacuation becomes necessary. Level 2, "Be Set," advises of significant danger, urging residents to voluntarily relocate or remain on high alert. Level 3, the most severe, means the danger is imminent and that residents should evacuate without delay.
Community members are being encouraged to closely follow local media for updates and are advised to watch out for emergency services personnel who may be stopping by to offer further instructions. Amid the chaos, it is important to remember to clearly mark your evacuation time and to not leave pets or livestock behind whenever possible. These animals should be brought to designated shelters which are better equipped to safely care for them throughout the duration of the wildfire threat.