As wildfires get closer to Portland, residents are being advised to keep an eye out for evacuation advisories.
Residents of Molalla, Colton, Mount Hood and Oregon City are now all under Level 3 “leave now” evacuation advisories. And that’s making neighbors in Multnomah County nervous.
Sheriff Craig Roberts, in nearby Clackamas County, said they upgraded evacuation levels for several areas Thursday afternoon because two fires are merging near Molalla.
“You know this situation is evolving rapidly at really an unprecedented rate,” said Roberts.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office is expecting extreme and severe fire behavior as the Beachie Creek and Riverside fires merge.
Lt. Rich Chatman with Portland Fire and Rescue said there are no evacuation orders in Multnomah County, but residents should sign up for emergency alerts and keep an eye on changing conditions.
People under a Level 2 ″be prepared to leave" evacuation might want to leave anyway — if they have somewhere safe to go — because winds, low moisture and heat can drive fires quickly.
Portland has sent about 10% of its staff to fight fires in Clackamas and Southern Oregon.
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