ROWENA, Ore. – The Rowena Fire is becoming more secure with each passing day as firefighters from the Oregon Department of Forestry worked strategically around the fire perimeter extinguishing hot embers near the edge of the fire. The containment increased to 37% due to efficient firefighting by our air and ground resources. The southeast side of the fire experienced strong gusty winds this afternoon, forcing firefighters to pause felling operations of hazard trees due to increased safety concerns. They will continue falling efforts tomorrow morning when winds are lighter.
Level 3 evacuations on the fire were lifted today at 12:00 pm by the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office allowing landowners the opportunity to return home and assess the condition of their property. Level 1 and 2 evacuation levels remain in effect in the fire area
The Red Cross shelter remains open at The Dalles Middle School at 1100 East 12th Street. Livestock and horses can be taken to the Wasco County Fairgrounds at 81849 Fairgrounds Road.
I-84 remains open, however firefighters are continuing to work near the roadway; be aware of crews when driving through the area.
Closures: Due to the fires, Mayer State Park is closed to the public. More information is available here: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=117
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): A “TFR” is in place at an altitude from the surface up to and including 6500 feet, daily (24 hours) until further notice. Complete information is available at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_5_2600. Flying a drone near or around a wildfire compromises the safety of pilots and interferes with firefighting efforts.
This will be the final evening update unless conditions change.