WINDOW ROCK – As the Oak Ridge Fire continues to grow, evacuations have been ordered, and additional evacuations are expected, according to the Incident Command Center.
Residents along Roads 603, 604, 605, and the Navajo Telecommunications Road in St. Michaels have been instructed to evacuate.
“We’re still receiving updates from BIA Fire regarding the extent of the evacuation,” said Navajo Nation Police Lieutenant Tyler Lynch. “Per BIA Fire, we plan to halt evacuations at midnight and redeploy our resources in the morning.”
Lieutenant Lynch also mentioned that the fire was caused by wood haulers operating in the Pine Springs Road area.
“Please do not go near the fire to take photos,” Lt. Lynch advised. “This can interfere with public safety. Be cautious and slow down on Route 12 and State Highway 264. Expect to see Navajo Police and Fire personnel responding rapidly, so please watch out for first responders.”
As of 10:30 p.m., agencies including BIA Fire, Navajo Nation Police, Navajo Department of Emergency Management, Apache County, and the Apache County Sheriff’s Office are actively involved in firefighting and safety efforts.
