Umatilla County evacuation levels downgraded as crews make progress containing wildfires

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- The Hat Rock and Mount Hebron fires in Umatilla County are continuing to burn as crews work to establish containment lines and protect buildings.

At 1:11 p.m. on Thursday, officials announced that evacuation levels have been downgraded. Those living within the range of a Level 2 "Be Set" evacuation are located at Juniper Canyon Road along Hartle Road, Wallula Road and Hatchgrade Road.

Those living within the range of a Level 1 "Be Ready" evacuation are located North of Highway 37 and Pendleton Cold Springs Highway, West of Kings Corner Road, North of South Juniper Canyon Road and west of Vansycle Road to the Washington State Border.

This morning, the Fire Marshall said the Hat Rock Fire is at 15,843 acres and the Mount Hebron Fire is at 370 acres.

On Thursday morning, the Oregon State Fire Marshal said crews worked overnight to build upon the existing fire lines and create 100 feet of containment, intended to keep flames away from threatened buildings.

There were flare-ups at both fires overnight which the fire marshall said were quickly extinguished. Stopping further spreading is a top priority because of winds in the area, authorities said.