July 26, 2019 4:15 a.m. 
The Milepost 97 Fire, about a mile southeast of Canyonville was up to 750 acres as of late Thursday evening.
Kyle Reed of the Douglas Forest Protective Association said the fire continued to burn actively Thursday due to hot temperatures, low-relative humidity readings, and gusty winds. The fire made a significant push Thursday afternoon to the south and west of the original fire area. It continues to burn in steep, rocky terrain with limited access. Reed said active fire behavior was expected to continue throughout the night.

In conjunction with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, a Level 3 “GO” Evacuation Order was issued for 3 homes near the southern end of the fire, between the 100 and 300 block of Ritchie Road. Reed said structural resources from local fire departments are currently on the scene to provide fire protection to these structures. Reed said while the fire is highly visible from the Canyonville, Riddle and Azalea areas, the Milepost 97 Fire does not pose a direct threat to these communities and no evacuation orders have been issued for these areas.

An Incident Management Team from the Oregon Department of Forestry has been ordered to assist with suppression efforts on the Milepost 97 Fire. ODF Incident Management Team 3 has been assigned to the fire. They will conduct a briefing with DFPA Friday afternoon and are scheduled to assume command of the fire Friday night at 6:00 p.m.

Approximately 100 firefighters are actively working on the Milepost 97 Fire. Reed said motorists passing through the area are asked to drive with caution as fire equipment and personnel may be working alongside Interstate Five.
Due to the fire, the Canyon Creek southbound off-ramp from Interstate Five at exit 95 has been closed. The northbound off-ramp has been closed since last week due to road construction. Both on-ramps at exit 95 remain open.
Stay with News Radio 1240 KQEN and www.541radio.com for updated fire information.