NEWPORT, Ore. (Oct. 25, 2026) — The Oregon State Fire Marshal is sending additional firefighting resources and hazardous materials specialists to Newport as crews continue battling a large fire at the Pacific Seafood facility that prompted evacuations Sunday morning.
The fire, reported Sunday morning at the seafood processing facility along Newport’s Bayfront, has drawn a significant emergency response amid concerns about anhydrous ammonia, a chemical commonly used in industrial refrigeration systems.
State Hazmat Team 05, based in the Linn-Benton area, was deployed to monitor air quality and assess potential hazards associated with the chemical. The team is using specialized equipment to detect possible contamination and computer modeling to identify areas that could be affected, helping emergency officials determine evacuation needs.
Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said crews have located the facility’s ammonia tank and found no apparent evidence of damage or leakage.
“The ammonia tank has been found and, thankfully, doesn’t appear to be punctured or leaking. Our team is on the ground and will remain in Newport through the duration of the incident,” Ruiz-Temple said.
As firefighters continue working to contain the blaze, the state is mobilizing additional personnel and equipment to relieve local crews.
A task force from Marion County, consisting of a ladder truck and four fire engines, is expected to arrive Sunday evening. A second deployment from Lane County, consisting of five fire engines, is scheduled to arrive Monday morning.
The additional resources will allow firefighters who have been battling the blaze for hours to rotate out while maintaining firefighting operations.
The deployments are being coordinated through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System, which allows agencies across the state to share emergency resources during major incidents.
“The Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System is frequently used during wildfire response; it is designed for all hazards, including hazmat. This response highlights its strength in protecting communities and providing resources to local responders,” Ruiz-Temple said.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has issued Level 2 and Level 3 evacuation notices for areas within approximately one mile of the facility.
A Level 3 evacuation means residents must leave immediately, while a Level 2 notice means residents should be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
The city of Newport has established an evacuation shelter at Sam Case Elementary School, located at 459 NE 12th St. Residents forced from their homes may bring their pets to the shelter.
Officials are asking the public to avoid the affected area while emergency crews continue their work.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office also has a regional mobilization coordinator at the scene, working directly with Newport Fire to assess operational needs and coordinate additional assistance if necessary.
Although officials have reported no apparent damage to the ammonia tank, hazardous materials specialists will remain on scene throughout the incident to monitor conditions and support emergency responders.
The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage have not been announced.
Discover more from Medford Alert News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
One thought on “Oregon Fire Marshal Deploys Hazmat Team, Additional Firefighters to Newport Fire”
Comments are closed.