Oregon, Washington Wildfires Close Major Gorge Highways, Prompt Evacuations

A major wildfire in Oregon has forced the indefinite closure of nearly 32 kilometers of Interstate 84 through the Columbia River Gorge, significantly impacting travel between Hood River and The Dalles. Authorities have issued evacuations northwest of The Dalles and established two temporary shelters as firefighting efforts, including aerial water and fire retardant drops, continue. Concurrently, a separate brush fire in Washington has closed 13 kilometers of State Route 14 along the Columbia River, further disrupting east-west travel in the Gorge. Additionally, a brief wildfire near Tumwater Canyon, Washington, caused the temporary closure of U.S. Highway 2 but was quickly contained without evacuations. These fires highlight the growing wildfire threat in the Pacific Northwest as authorities urge travelers to seek alternate routes and remain vigilant. The combination of multiple fires has led to heightened alertness in the region amid ongoing fire season.