Evacuation orders and Updates for Yamhill County residents

Evacuation orders for Yamhill County residents

Updated 9/30/20 | En Español
For updates, check Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Twitter, and Yamhill County Emergency Management Facebook Page. Yamhill County Hotline is staffed from 8:00am - 12:00pm while the fire incident is active at 503-474-4944. Sign up for emergency alerts through Yamhill County - you will only be notified if evacuation levels change in your location. 

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE EVACUATION MAP
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE AIR QUALITY IN NEWBERG

On this page:

• Updates
• Evacuation Levels
  • Interactive Evacuation Map Updated by TVF&R
• Resources for those needing to evacuate
• How you can help

*******

UPDATES

Update from TVF&R 9/30/20 - 2:40pm: "Level 2 evacuation warnings have been lifted in the Chehalem Mt.-Bald Peak area. Firefighters are still patrolling and putting out hot spots. Crews have been cutting down unstable and smoldering trees that can endanger residents and firefighters. Please drive carefully as ground crews are working near roads. If you see fire burning unattended, please call 911. Do not call 911 for smoke complaints."

____

Update from TVF&R 9/29 - 11:30am: "Our firefighters are still doing vital work on Chehalem Mountain to douse hot spots and monitor the area. We are also grateful for the Oregon Department of Forestry hand crews supporting our mop up operations."

____

Update from TVF&R 9/23/20 4:30pm: "Firefighters are still patrolling and working to put out hot spots. Despite recent rainy weather, there are still dangerous areas. It can take 1,000 hours of wet conditions to eliminate risk. Level 2 evacuation warnings remain in place. In the next week, ground crews will be cutting down dangerous trees. If you see fire burning unattended, please call 911. We appreciate the difficulty neighbors have experienced and will continue to work hard to protect our community."

____

Update from TVF&R 9/15 - 2:30pm: "TVF&R fire investigators have determined the cause of the Chehalem Mountain – Bald Peak Fire to be an improperly extinguished campfire on private property near the 20000 block of Neugebauer Road. As a result of dry fuels, low humidity, high winds as well as steep and rugged terrain, the fire spread very quickly and proved very challenging to fight.

Approximately 875 acres were impacted by the fire, though fire protection, suppression, and patrols have been conducted throughout 1,555 acres. In some cases, fire jumped over areas leaving unburned timber and dry fuels. Though the fire is considered contained, residents will need to remain vigilant and should call 911 to report any spot fires (see additional tips for residents below). Level 2 evacuation zones remain in place since conditions can change quickly. See map for address information https://tvfr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=1981954eb18.... Firefighters will remain in the area to mop up hot spots and monitor for flare ups. An audit is being done in the area to verify the number of outbuildings impacted by fire. Firefighters were able to protect all homes.

Residents may notice smoldering stumps for weeks or months.

Residents are encouraged to:

Check ground for hot spots on their property.
Create a defensible space around your home and outbuildings. See tips at https://www.tvfr.com/192/Wildfire
Wet down areas adjacent structures and landscape.
Maintain access for firefighters working in the area.
Contact 911 if any active fire is burning or any danger is perceived.

Air quality remains unhealthy and people are encouraged to remain indoors. To get real time air quality information, visit www.airnow.gov."

____

Update from TVF&R 9/14 - 4:00pm: "The Chehalem Mountain-Bald Peak Fire is 100% contained, and most residents have returned home. Though all Level 3 evacuations have been lifted, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared to leave if conditions change. Firefighters will continue to mop up hot spots throughout the week.

Residents returning home may notice smoldering stumps and vegetation. Residents are encouraged to:
• Check ground for hot spots.
• Check roof and landscape for any embers.
• Check wells or pump-houses to ensure they’re in working order.
• Contact 911 if any active fire is burning or any danger is perceived.

PGE has restored power to the area. If residents experience any power problems, they can report it to PGE by calling 503-464-7777 or going online https://new.portlandgeneral.com/outages.

Air quality remains unhealthy and people are encouraged to remain indoors. To get real time air quality information, visit www.airnow.gov"

____

Update from TVF&R 9/13 - 1:00pm: "All Level 3 evacuations are now lifted at the Chehalem Mountain-Bald Peak Fire. The fire is estimated at 75% contained. Approximately 30 TVF&R firefighters are mopping up. Additional hand crews from Oregon Department of Forestry are also dousing hot spots and contending with tree snags. Portland General Electric has been working to restore power. Air quality remains unhealthy and people are encouraged to remain indoors. To get real time air quality information, visit www.airnow.gov."

____

Update from TVF&R 9/12 - 3:15pm: "The fire is now estimated at 75% contained. Firefighters working with crews from the Oregon Department of Forestry will be focusing their efforts on hot spots located within a reduced Level 3 evacuation zone. Incident commanders have evaluated the progress of firefighters and have determined that most the Level 3 zones can be significantly decreased to a Level 2 (safe to return). Power still has not been restored to the area. By reducing the Level 3 zones, PGE will be able to access the area to begin the process of restoring power in a controlled manner.

Due to the change in the evacuation Levels, most residents will be allowed to return home. Residents should be aware that firefighters will be working on hot spots throughout the area, and anyone living inside of the Level 2 area needs to remain “set” to go at a moment’s notice. Fire conditions can change quickly, and incident commanders will continue to evaluate progress and may adjust evacuation zones as necessary."

____

From TVF&R 9/12 - 11:30am: "There have been no changes in the conditions or evacuation zones for the Chehalem Mountain Fire overnight. Our incident commanders will be meeting this morning to evaluate progress and make decisions on operational changes such as reducing evacuation zones and restoring power. If deemed safe, we will then begin to work with PGE to restore power where appropriate."

The Air Quality Index indicates Newberg's current Air Quality as Very Unhealthy. Remember to protect yourself and loved ones by wearing a mask outdoors, running an air purifier, closing your windows, and avoiding outdoor exercise. Protect your pets as well by limiting their exposure to the outdoors. There are no evacuation notices within Newberg city limits. 

____

Update from Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue 9/11 - 2:00pm: "Chehalem Mountain-Bald Peak Fire is 70% contained. 75 firefighters are still working. Revised estimate of burned area remains 875 acres. Fire investigators conducting interviews & examining evidence. The cause is under investigation. Firefighters have been able to protect all homes, but three barns have burned. Fire investigators have been conducting witness interviews and examining material evidence. The cause of the fire remains under investigation."

____

Update from Yamhill County Sheriff's Office 9/11 - 11:30am: "Nothing has changed as of yet today regarding the Chehalem Mountain-Bald Peak Fire. Still lots of personnel working. Power remains off and Mountaintop Road is still closed between Hwy 219 and McCormick Hill and Bald Peak is closed between Hwy 219 and Ornduff."

____

From Yamhill County Emergency Management 9/11 - 9:30am: "The Temporary Evacuation Point (TEP) at Newberg High School is closing and we are directing anyone with evacuation needs to Northwest Christian Church, 2315 Villa Rd, Newberg"

____

9/11 - 8:55am: The Air Quality Index indicates Newberg's current Air Quality as Very Unhealthy. Remember to protect yourself and loved ones by wearing a mask outdoors, running an air purifier, closing your windows, and avoiding outdoor exercise. Protect your pets as well by limiting their exposure to the outdoors. There are no evacuation notices within Newberg city limits. 

____

Update from TVF&R 9/10 - 4:30pm: "Some residents who were evacuated are being allowed to return home. This searchable map shows areas that are now safe, though it’s important for people to be prepared to leave again if fire conditions change.

There are still 72 firefighters working at the scene of the Chehalem Mountain-Bald Peak fire. Considerable progress has been made. Revised estimates of burned area based on ground reconnaissance, aerial footage, and GIS analysis is 875 acres. Firefighters have been able to protect all homes, but three barns have burned. Water is being dropped from the air and dozers are being used to cut fire lines. The biggest challenge is steep terrain and canyons. There have been no known injuries to residents, firefighters, or animals. The fire is approximately 50% contained. Fire commanders are currently assessing containment progress."

From Yamhill County Sheriff's Office 9/10 - 5pm: "For Yamhill County Residents - The following roads previously at Level 3 are now Level 2 “Be Set”. You may return but remain prepared:

• NE Chehalem Dr south of Hillside Dr including NE Happy Hill,
• NE Ranor Lp,
• NE Welch, NE Bryan Creek,
• NE North Valley between Hillside and Chehalem
• NE McCormick Hill
• NE Bald Peak Rd west of the 18000 block 
• NE Mountaintop Rd west of 22905 
• NE Mountaintop Rd between Hwy 219 and NE Bell Road is open

A reminder that power is still shut off in the area for the safety of firefighters."

____

Update from TVF&R 9/10/20 - 3:30pm: "Commanders are coordinating with the Oregon Department of Forestry for two aircraft to provide water drops."

____

From Washington County Sheriff's Office 9/10/2020 - 11:30am: "The fire has now grown to an estimated 2k acres. There are up to 200 firefighters working this fire currently. Some residents under Level 3 evacuation orders are attempting to return home. Please stay away from the area until further notice as crews are actively battling the fire in these areas. 

The fire operation will continue for at least the next 24 hour period and all evacuations will remain in place through that time. Power remains shut off in the affected areas for firefighter safety. No update on power restoration at this time." 

____

From Yamhill County Sheriff's Office 9/10/20 - 10:30am : "Crews with TVF&R, Washington County Sheriff's Office, and Yamhill County Sheriff's Office have continued round the clock. Still no houses lost. We ask for your continued patience and understanding in staying out of the evacuation area as aerial operations will continue."

From TVF&R 9/10/20 - 9am: "Firefighers continue working at the Chehalem Mountain-Bald Peak fire. Dozers are being used to cut fire lines. Fire commanders will be assessing areas this morning to determine containment progress." TVF&R's UAS footage from 9/9.

____

As of 9/9/20 at 8:00pm, the Chehalem Mountain Fire was 50% contained. No further evacuations notices issued. No evacuation notices have been issued within Newberg city limits. 

____

Updated 9/9/20 - 3:15pm

NEW AREAS ADDED TO LEVEL 1 EVACUATION READINESS STATUS:
Based on recommendations from the Chehalem Mountain Fire Command, Level 1 evacuation readiness is being implemented for:
***LEVEL 1***

• the addresses on, and east, of Kings Grade Road between North Valley Road and Bald Peak Road
• Bachelor Boulevard
• Bjur Lane
• SW Cady Road
• SW Casavant Drive
• SW Colby Lane
• SW Cougar Hill Lane
• SW Finnigan Hill Road
• SW Holly Hill Road
• SW McCormick Hill Road
• SW Ornduff Road
• SW Turner Hill Lane

Level 1 is defined as follows: 

Level 1: Means “BE READY“ for potential evacuation. Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, monitor emergency services websites and local media outlets for information. This is the time for preparation and precautionary movements of persons with special needs, mobile property and (under certain circumstances) pets and livestock. If conditions worsen, emergency services personnel may contact you via an emergency notification system.

____

Updated 9/8/20

LEVEL 3 EVACUATIONS
All portions of the following road have been evacuated. Evacuation alerts will be sent through the Yamhill County Alert System and by Yamhill County Sheriffs going door to door: 

SW Weaver Dr.
SW Wildflower Dr.
NE Brooks Ln.
NE Jaquith Ln.
NE Ellis Ln
NE Mountain Top Rd.
NE Bald Peak Rd.
NE McCormick Hill Rd.
NE Bryan Creek
NE Quarter Mile Ln.
NE Chehalem Dr.
NE Hillside Dr.
SW Neugebauer Road (added at 11:20 p.m.)
SW Herd Ln.
SW Hideaway Ln.
SW Forest Park Rd
SW Strawberry Hill Dr.
SW Fernhollow Ln.
SW Bryanna Ct.
SW Wildhaven Ln.
Area east of SW Neugebauer Rd. to Hwy 219 between SW Jaquith Rd and SW Vanderschuere Rd.
SW Buckhaven Rd., north to SW McCormick Hill Rd., up to Vanderschuere Rd.

Evacuate to family or friends.  Evacuation sites in Newberg include Newberg Christian Church at 2315 Villa Road or Newberg High School at 2400 Douglas Avenue, both in Newberg, Oregon.

Firefighters are battling a significant wildfire located west of Sherwood and north of Newberg that has threatened multiple structures and required level 3 evacuations for approximately 100 residents. Deputies with Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office went door to door for all level 3 evacuations and will notify any level 2 areas in person too.

*******

EVACUATION LEVELS: CLICK HERE TO SEE THE EVACUATION MAP UPDATED BY TUALATIN VALLEY FIRE AND RESCUE

***EVACUATION LEVELS HAVE RECENTLY CHANGED. SEE THE EVACUATION MAP FOR THE MOST UP TO DATE EVACUATION LEVELS.***

******

RESOURCES FOR THOSE NEEDING TO EVACUATE

RED CROSS CASCADES

Those in need of resources can contact the Red Cross at 1 800 RED CROSS or visit redcross.org. You can also call 2-1-1 to find the resources closest to you. 

ANIMAL SHELTER

Newberg Animal Shelter
Taking in dogs and cats ONLY
RVs & Trailers welcome to come park
1591 S Sandoz Rd, Newberg, OR 97132
503-554-9285

Yamhill County Fairgrounds
2070 NE Lafayette Ave, McMinnville, OR 97128
503-434-7524. Call the 503-474-4944 after 4:30pm to get connected. 

Washington County Fairgrounds
802 NE 28th Avenue, Hillsboro, OR 97124
Contact: 503-314-3433 (call in advance, so they can prepare for your arrival)
RV Spots and campsites available. Washington County Sheriff’s Posse can care for animals overnight, but owners must provide daily care. 

******

Sign up for emergency alerts through Yamhill County at https://member.everbridge.net/892807736727638/login - you will only be notified if evacuation levels change in your location. 

This is an emergency message from the Yamhill County Sheriff's Office to those in Level 3 Evacuation Areas:

Due to a wildfire in the area a Level 3 evacuation order has been issued for your area. This message is being sent on September 8, 2020 at 8:30 pm. For your safety you are to immediately evacuate your home. Please listen carefully and complete the following tasks before leaving your home;

1. Gather all family members.
2. Gather all pets.
3. Gather only essential items.
4. Be sure to bring essential medications with you.
5. Turn off all appliances (including gas) and lights in your home.
6. Lock your home.

Please leave your neighborhood immediately and drive to the home of a friend or family member outside of the evacuation area. For your safety, please leave your neighborhood immediately by using the following evacuation route:

NE Chehalem Dr or NE Hillside Dr to Newberg. NW Christian Church (2315 Villa Rd) is being set up as the emergency evacuation center. Information on the status of the evacuation will be provided once evacuation center volunteers arrive on scene. 

Brian Young
Yamhill County Emergency Manager
535 NE 5th St
McMinnville OR 97128
(503) 434-7340

******

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

TVF&R has asked community members to please NOT drop off any items at fire stations, but rather, donate to the American Red Cross Northwest Oregon Chapter.

The Yamhill County Sheriff's Office has asked that you call Yamhill County Emergency Management at 503-474-4944 where they can take down your information and the type of donation or resource you have available. This way they can contact you when there becomes a need for your donation or service.

See the Oregon Emergency Management Disaster Volunteers and Donations Portal to get connected to opportunities.