The Oregon Department of Forestry reports firefighters from the Department of Forestry, Hood River and Mosier have stopped the forward progress of the Westcliff Fire, located northwest of Hood River near Westcliff Drive, between Interstate 84 and the Columbia River. They are working to strengthen the firelines and starting to mop-up fuels near the existing line.
The evacuation levels have dropped. As of 5pm, Westcliff Lodge and Charburger are level 2 (get set) and open for business. The rest of Westcliff Drive between Exit 62 and Ruthton Park are level 1 (ready).
The fire was reported just after midnight, spreading from a structure into the wildland. 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 woody material on the ground is a safety concern for firefighters working below as rolling debris moves downslope
Resources include structural and wildland engines and structural tenders. Also, a Type 1 helicopter has been dropping water on the difficult east flank of the fire. A Type 3 helicopter was using a bucket to drop water on hot spots. The Hood River County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that drones are not allowed in the area with helicopters in the air.
Union Pacific has closed the railroad lines north of the fire. Firefighters are working to establish containment lines near the tracks.
The fire is estimated at less than 5 acres
Updates on evacuations can be found on the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.