VALE, Oregon — Residents who evacuated because of the Lytle Fire near Vale are now being allowed to return home after officials said the fire threat has been eliminated.
According to Malheur County Emergency Management, the 6,500 acre fire that was burning near Cow Hollow and Mitchell Butte Road has been extinguished, and crews are continuing to mop up remaining hot spots.
All evacuation alerts have been lifted, and residents may return to their properties.
Officials said firefighters were able to gain control of the blaze after winds eased, allowing crews to establish containment lines and protect threatened homes and structures. A nearby canal also provided a key water source for firefighting efforts.
Residents returning to the area are being urged to use caution. Fire crews remain on scene overhauling burned areas, while Idaho Power crews work to replace damaged power poles and restore electricity.
The fire was first reported Monday afternoon near Vale and prompted a brief Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation order for the Cow Hollow and Mitchell Butte areas before conditions improved and evacuation levels were reduced.
