4 minutes

Dennis Katsnelson

On a fateful Saturday morning, a home blaze broke out close to the junction of U.S. Highway 26 and Highway 47. According to authorities, the blaze quickly spread to a neighboring residence and wild land. Firefighters were immediately called to the scene and arrived there shortly before 10 a.m. The fire department was called to the scene. The intensity of the blaze was such that it took firefighters several hours to bring it under control. At around 4:30 p.m., the fire department reported on Facebook that the blaze had been localized and there was no more danger of it expanding. However, several households lost their houses as a result of the fire.

We took this video from KPTV FOX 12 Oregon YouTube Channel.

The effects of the fire were not only felt in the immediate area of the blaze. Highway 26 was closed for almost the entire day, causing major delays in vehicular traffic. The road was finally reopened around 6:00 pm. Fortunately, everyone who was in the home at the time of the fire was able to escape unharmed. However, several people suffered minor wounds. As the fire continued, a level one "Be Prepared" evacuation was declared for residents in the neighborhood. It was canceled at 3:30 p.m., but authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and stay away from the affected area.

Fighting the fire proved challenging for firefighters due to a number of factors. These included difficult terrain, downed power lines, limited water supplies and unfavorable weather conditions. Representatives from multiple agencies, including the Oregon Department of Forestry, were called in to help firefighters.

In conclusion, the fire that occurred Saturday in the Banks Township area had far-reaching effects that affected both people and motorists. Although firefighters were eventually able to bring the blaze under control, several families lost their homes. This incident serves as a reminder of how important it is to be vigilant and prepared for unexpected emergencies.