Update: September 12, 2022, 2:30 p.m.
After consulting with fire officials earlier today, evacuation levels related to the Vitae Springs fire are again being downgraded. As of this afternoon, the following areas remain at a Level 1: Be Ready status:
- Vitae Springs Road between Skyline Rd S to River Rd
- West side of Skyline Rd from Vitae Springs Rd to Cole Rd S
- Orville Rd S
- Riversprings Rd to Prospect Ridge
Level 1: BE READY for potential evacuation. You should be aware of the danger that exists in the area, monitor emergency services websites and local media outlets for information. This is the time for preparation and precautionary movements of persons with special needs, mobile property, and (under certain circumstances) pets and livestock. If conditions worsen, emergency services personnel may contact you via an emergency notification system.
An up-to-date map of evacuated areas can be found at https://bit.ly/2022VitaeSpringsFire.
There are 60 fire personnel assigned to the incident today who will be continuing with mop up work. Weather conditions in the forecast for the coming days are favorable to maintaining progress made over the last few days. The footprint of the fire is currently estimated to be approximately 165 acres, primarily comprised of dense brush and wooded areas including steep terrain. Fire officials expect to see the fire continue to smolder in areas and produce smoke until prolonged heavy rains arrive in what is known as a season-ending event.
As of this morning there have been no reported injuries related to the fire and no structures have been lost. The Salem Fire Department is preparing a plan to continue to patrol the area for potential hot spots and will contact effected property owners as those plans are developed.
We want to encourage community members to sign up to receive emergency alerts by visiting Marion Polk Alerts.
