Fire approximately 5 miles from town, residents urged to leave
SPRAY, OR (3:30 PM 07/19/24) - The Lonerock Fire has continued to push further south into Wheeler County on Friday afternoon, threatening ranches and homes near Winlock.
Residents in the City of Spray received a Level 3 "Go Now" Evacuation Order from the Wheeler Co. Sheriff's Office just after 3:30 PM.
Local residents are reporting that the fire is within 5 miles of town.
The Lonerock Fire has now burned more than 84,000 acres and is at 40% containment. Firefighters are in Spray and are also fighting the fire from the southeast and southwest.
However, crews have been unable to create a line to keep the fire from spreading to Spray.
Several crews that specialize in structure fires are reported to be on scene. The Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office mobilized 9 task forces, which are currently assigned to the fire. Those crews are north of Spray and working to protect homes, and are also within the town of Spray, said Stefan Myers Public Information Officer with the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office.
Meyers said that crews had saved at least 6 homes. Local residents say that at least three structures burned on Williams Road.
Firefighters have been bracing for the late afternoon, when shifting winds and high temperatures create unpredictable situations.
More information will be provided as it comes.
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