Myrtle Creek, Ore. — Several grass fires near Myrtle Creek are slowing traffic on I-5.
According to the Douglas County Fire Protection Association at least two fires were reported around 6:30 Thursday evening.
Crews responded and found at least a dozen ongoing fires.
According to Douglas Fire District 2, there are nine different fire agencies working to keep the blazes contained.
Ray Shoufler, Fire Marshal with DCFD #2 said a passing van sparked the string of fires “So far what we know is there was a van that was traveling north bound. It started about the 104. Apparently the catalytic converter had malfunctioned or plugged up somehow and started spitting sparks. Oregon state police caught up with the van about the top of Roberts Mountain. They have them stopped, but in the meantime as you can see it started numerous fires along the way.”
Officials say the fire is burning along Interstate 5 from mile marker 101 to 116.
Some homes were threatened but fire officials say the risk has diminished now that the sun is down.
No freeway lanes are closed and the fire is not currently spreading.
(Photo credit: Shannon Ivie/Facebook)
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