The fire driven by unusually gusty winds had extended to a nearby 40 ft. by 120 ft. metal storage building and its contents on arrival of the first units; it also caused brands and embers to spot away from the original fire and create two additional natural cover fires in and around other nearby structures.
All residents of the manufactured home park immediately south of the location where the fire originated were temporarily evacuated as a preventive measure. Hwy 99 South was closed during and extended period of time due to ongoing fire operations. The Interstate 5 Freeway experienced slowed to a complete halt in traffic at times during this incident.
Fire fighters using hand lines aggressively attacked the fire to limit its spread and protect all the threatened structures. No other structures were lost to the fire, which was declared under control in approximately 60 minutes. Fire crews remained on scene until approximately 11:00 p.m.
The cause of the fire is currently being investigated by members of the Douglas County Fire District No.2- Fire Investigation Unit.
No injuries to civilians or fire personnel were reported.
Fire damage estimates to follow later this morning.
Fire District No.2 fire fighters were assisted by Winston Dillard Fire District No.5, Roseburg Fire Department, Sutherlin Fire Department, and Douglas Forest Protective Association. In all it took the efforts of 42 fire fighters, with 15 fire engines, 4 command units, 1 helicopter, 1 ambulance, and 1 support unit to bring this incident under control.
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police provided traffic control and fire personnel safety along Old Highway 99 South and Interstate 5.