Oregon Department of Forestry, Hood River Fire Department, and Mosier Fire crews are continuing to work on containing the Westcliff Fire near Westcliff Drive northwest of Hood River between Interstate 84 and the Columbia River.
The fire was reported late Saturday night, spreading from a structure into the wildland. Currently the fire is estimated at approximately five acres. Cool temperatures, low wind, and increased humidity moderated fire behavior through the night and this morning, but rising temperatures and gorge winds will increase fire behavior today
The fire is burning in a rugged area of cliffs, making firefighter access difficult. Steep terrain on the east flank of the fire, with large trees and snags and significant down woody material is a safety concern for firefighters working below as rolling debris moves downslope.
A Type 1 helicopter was to arrive today to focus on getting water on the east flank of the fire, while a Type 3 helicopter was doing bucket drops on hot spots.
Union Pacific has closed the railroad lines north of the fire as a precaution. Firefighters are working near the tracks to establish containment lines
The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the fire claimed one home, and a Level 3 evacuation advisory remains in place for Westcliff Lodge and homes to the west on Westcliff Drive.