Updated 8/31, 7:30 a.m.: Highway 126 has re-opened, after being closed for much of Wednesday due to a wildfire. A spot fire from the fires in the area jumped the highway from west to east, according to officials. The 20-mile closure stretched from the intersection of Hwy 242 near McKenzie Bridge, to where Highway 126 meets Hwy 20 near Santiam Junction.
Highway 242, a narrow, winding seasonal road, remains closed to through traffic because of the fires in the areas.
The Oregon Department of Transportation urged drivers on the re-opened Hwy 126 to continue to use caution and watch for fire-fighting equipment and personnel. Travelers are advised to check www.TripCheck.com for the latest in roadway information.
The Lookout, Horse Creek, and Pothole Fires 2023 burning in both Lane County and Linn County.
Evacuations remain in effect for the fires. There are also numerous recreation areas and trails that have been closed in the Willamette and Deschutes National Forests.
A Community Meeting for the Lookout, Bedrock, Horse Creek, and Pothole Fires was held Wednesday evening at McKenzie High School in Vida.
A recording of the meeting was posted on Facebook.
