A wildfire has erupted in the scenic Columbia River Gorge, prompting critical evacuation measures and road closures that are impacting the Wasco County area in Oregon. The fire was first reported on Wednesday afternoon near milepost 78 on westbound I-84. As the situation developed throughout the day, local authorities expanded evacuation notices to ensure the safety of residents in potentially affected areas.
Currently, Level 3 “Go Now” evacuations have been implemented, covering regions from Rowena River Ferry Road East to River Road, along with stretches from Seven Mile Hill Road to Mountain View Drive, and extending south to Chenowith Creek Road. Browns Creek Road runs east to West 7th Street, which also falls within the evacuation parameters.
In addition to the urgent evacuations, Level 2 “Be Set” alerts have been issued for areas stretching from Snipes West to Chenoweth Loop Road and from Chenowith Creek Road to Browns Creek Road. To further prepare the public for potential evacuations, Level 1 “Be Ready” notices were announced for the Port area of The Dalles. It is crucial for residents to stay informed, and for the most current updates, the community is encouraged to visit the evacuation map provided by local authorities.
The wildfire has led to significant disruptions on local roadways as well. I-84 and Highway 30 have been closed from Rowena to milepost 82, effectively rerouting drivers who must now use alternate routes. This development not only complicates travel in the area but also creates challenges for emergency services as they work diligently to manage the fire.
As of 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, the wildfire had already scorched approximately 20 acres. The response team comprises the Oregon Department of Forestry, the U.S. Forest Service, and local fire districts, collectively deploying a robust firefighting resource inventory. This includes 10 engines, one hand crew, two air tankers, one helicopter, and two water tenders—an intensive operation reflecting the severity of the situation. The fire is located approximately 2.5 miles from The Dalles, heightening concerns for residents in nearby communities.
For those affected by the evacuations, temporary shelter options are available. The Gloria Center, situated at 2505 West 7th Street in The Dalles, is open until 8 p.m. on Wednesday to provide immediate assistance to those in need. Additionally, The Dalles Middle School, located at 1100 East 12th Street, will open its doors as a temporary shelter starting at 4:30 p.m. This community response underscores the collaborative efforts to support residents during this challenging time.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, there is a second fire reported on the Washington side of the Columbia River, which has resulted in the closure of Highway 14. This closure is further complicating east-west travel throughout the Columbia Gorge, limiting mobility for residents and emergency services alike.
As this accounts for a developing story, residents and stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant and check for updates as authorities monitor the wildfire conditions. With safety as the primary concern, it is essential that everyone adhere to evacuation orders and stay informed about the ongoing firefighting efforts and any potential changes to road closures.
The community’s resilience is being tested, but the swift action from local authorities and emergency responders reflects a robust commitment to ensuring public safety in the face of adversity. The shared anxiety of residents is palpable, but there are dedicated teams working tirelessly to combat the fire and protect lives.
In conclusion, the wildfire in the Columbia River Gorge serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildfires and the importance of preparedness. Those living in areas prone to such incidents must always stay informed and be ready to act swiftly if needed. As this situation continues to evolve, it’s vital for the community to rally together, remain updated through official channels, and support each other wherever necessary. The local agencies are doing everything possible to address the wildfire and support residents, but the collaborative effort of the community is equally important in overcoming this challenge.
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