ODOT release, July 29, 3:15 p.m. – DRAIN – Oregon 38 (Umpqua Highway) remains closed at milepost 44, about seven miles west of Drain, due a small wildfire that erupted when a tree fell onto nearby powerlines. Emergency crews are on scene fighting the blaze, including Douglas Forest Protective Association, Elkton and North Douglas Fire District. Douglas Electric Cooperative is also on scene. There is no detour. ODOT expects the highway will remain closed until later this afternoon. Update: July 29, 4:30 p.m. – ODOT: SW Oregon: Oregon 38 (Umpqua Highway) is now open to a single lane of traffic at milepost 44, about seven miles west of Drain. A pilot car and flaggers are providing traffic control. Motorists should expect congestion and delays until both lanes are opened and traffic clears. The highway had been closed for more than two hours after a tree fell into the roadway, causing a nearby grass fire.
