E-Paper
Columbia River Gorge fire map and evacuation updates: Blaze near Rowena Crest viewpoint closes I-84 near The Dalles
A wildfire near Rowena Crest in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge has closed I-84 between Mosier and The Dalles. An evacuation order is in effect.
A wildfire broke out Wednesday afternoon near the Rowena Crest viewpoint in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge, prompting the closure of Interstate 84 in both directions between Mosier and The Dalles (mileposts 64–82).
The Wasco County Sheriff’s Office first reported the blaze around 1:30 p.m., noting it was burning near Tom McCall Preserve and Mayer State Park. Authorities said the fire initially started as two spot fires before merging into a larger blaze, according to Fox 12.
Evacuation orders are now in effect:
Level 3 (“Go Now”): Issued for a small area east of the park along Rowena Ferry Road.
Level 2 (“Be Set”): In place for residents further east along Highway 30.
Temporary evacuation shelters have been established at The Dalles Middle School and the Gloria Center.
The closest town to the fire is Carson, Washington, located just across the Columbia River.
As of now, no injuries or structural damage have been reported. It remains unclear when Interstate 84 will reopen.
