MILEPOST 87 FIRE in The Dalles
Photo Credit: Wasco County Sheriff’s Office
Updated June 16, 2023 3:30 p.m. All evacuation areas have been lowered to a Level 1 BE READY and the fire is 80% contained. Crews are still on scene but there are no active fires.
As we have seen over the last few days, fire season is ramping up. Stay diligent and help protect our region from wildfires
Update: June 15 2023 11.42 p.m.
The Dalles, OR– Mile Post 87 Fire erupted at 5.30 PM on June 14, 2023. The fire, which rapidly consumed an estimated 150-200 acres, left a trail of destruction in its wake, displacing families and threatening numerous structures. In the face of adversity, stories of hope, resilience, and compassion have emerged, as the community comes together to lend a helping hand.
The fire broke out near Viewpoint Road and E. 2nd Street, an immediate response was triggered by a collaboration of dedicated firefighting agencies. Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue, Dufur Fire, Wamic Fire, Hood River Task Force, Dallesport Fire, Petersburg Rangeland Fire Protection Association, and the Oregon Department of Forestry swiftly mobilized to combat the raging flames. The unwavering commitment of these brave firefighters, coupled with the assistance of local wheat farmers, played a vital role in containing the fire and minimizing further damage.
In a race against time, evacuation orders were issued to ensure the safety of residents in the path of the inferno. With a Level 3 "GO NOW" evacuation in effect for the area east of Fifteen Mile Road from East 2nd Street to Eightmile Road, families were forced to leave their homes behind, seeking refuge in temporary shelters including
The Red Cross Shelter located at Gateway Church, situated at 1111 Dry Hollow Road, which has provided a safe haven and essential resources to displaced residents.
View Point Mobile Park, initially facing the threat of destruction, received a glimmer of hope as it was downgraded to a Level 2 "GET READY" status, offering some relief to the concerned residents.
Among the buildings perilously positioned in the fire's path, the Oregon Veterans' Home stood strong, defying the flames with the assistance of dedicated firefighters. Although within the Level 3 evacuation zone, strategic placement of fire engines around the facility ensured the safety of the building, its honored residents, and staff. The heroic efforts of these firefighters, combined with the resilience and preparedness of the facility's personnel, resulted in the veterans' home being able to shelter in place.
While the fire caused immeasurable loss and hardship for the affected individuals, the spirit of the community shines through their determination to rebuild their lives.
One such person is Dave, a 60-year-old US Army veteran who lost everything in the blaze. In an effort to start anew and provide for his deaf-blind dog, Dave has initiated a fundraising campaign. The GoFundMe page, seeking support for a new home, essential items, and pet necessities, has garnered attention and generous contributions from the compassionate community. You can find Dave’s Campaign and donate here: https://gofund.me/95c9db7d
As the fire continues to be battled with unwavering resolve, there is hope on the horizon. The firefighters' relentless efforts have resulted in the containment of the fire increasing to 40%, a significant milestone in bringing the situation under control.
As of 11:15 p.m. on June 15th, all Level 3 evacuations downgraded to a Level 2 "GET SET" status and some residents are just now gradually returning to their homes. Nevertheless, the true extent of the devastation is evident, with three primary structures, including a brick-and-mortar home and two mobile homes, reduced to ashes. Additionally, one mobile home, one outbuilding, and two pump houses suffered varying degrees of damage.
In the face of this trying ordeal, the Mile Post 87 Fire has brought the resilient spirit of The Dalles community to the forefront. The strength, compassion, and unwavering support exhibited by individuals and organizations have provided a glimmer of hope amid the destruction. As the community bands together to rebuild lives and restore our beloved town, their unity and determination will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter future.
As the situation continues to unfold, vigilance and unity remain paramount, as neighbors extend a helping hand to those in need.
Update: June 15th, 2023 11:55 a.m.
All Level 3 evacuations have been lowered to a Level 2 GET SET.
Three primary structures were destroyed, one brick and mortar home and two mobile homes. Additionally, one mobile home, one outbuilding, and two pump houses suffered damage from the fire.
The fire is now 40% contained.
A Level 2 (Get Ready) evacuation is in place for:
- The intersection of Eightmile Road and Fifteen Mile Road to the intersection of Emerson Loop Road and Company Hollow Road, north from East 2nd Street east to the intersection of Old Moody Road and Company Hollow Road.
- The area east of Fifteen Mile Road from East 2nd Street to Eightmile Road.
Update: June 14th, 2023 10:36 p.m.
From Wasco County Sheriff’s Office:
The Dalles, OR— Wasco County Dispatch received a call around 5:11 p.m. on June 14, 2023, reporting a fire near Viewpoint Road.and E. 2nd Street.
A Level 3 GO NOW evacuation is in place for the area east of Fifteen Mile Road from East 2nd Street to Eightmile Road.
View Point Mobile Park has been downgraded to a Level 2 GET READY.
A Level 2 GET READY evacuation is in place for the intersection of Eightmile Road and Fifteen Mile Road to the intersection of Emerson Loop Road and Company Hollow Road, north from East 2nd Street east to the intersection of Old Moody Road and Company Hollow Road.
The Oregon Veterans’ Home, which is within the Level 3 evacuation zone, is sheltering in place with fire engines staged around the structure to protect the building, its residents and staff.
Approximately 150 acres has burned and structure protection is in place for threatened buildings along Fifteen Mile Road. The extreme fire activity from earlier today has been moderated and crews continue to actively fight the fire, working toward containment overnight and into tomorrow. The fire is 0% contained.
A map of the viewpoint fire. Photo Credit: Wasco County Sheriff’s Office
The American Red Cross Cascades Region has opened a shelter in response to a fast-moving wildfire in The Dalles. Volunteers are there now to assist evacuees. The shelter location is Gateway Church, located at 1111 Dry Hollow Road for affected residents. Initial responding agencies included Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue, Dufur Fire, Wamic Fire, Hood River Task Force, Dallesport Fire, Petersburg Rangeland Fire Protection Association and Oregon Department of Forestry.
Photo Credit: Wasco County Sheriff’s Office
Additionally, two Moses Lake VLAT Air Tankers and two Fire Bosses were deployed.
All evacuation levels will remain in place overnight and the situation will continue to be evaluated.
Emergency Information Line: 541-506-2792
Update: June 14th, 2023 at 9:56 p.m.
The Dalles, OR— A fire was reported burning in The Dalles near milepost 87 and East 2nd and Viewpoint Rd at 5:30 p.m. on June 14th, 2023.
Updates will be posted at the top of this story.
9:56 pm reports are trickling in that the fire is holding, and although there are still hot pockets, they are getting Dozer lines around the fire, and holding it back. As the weather cools down at night, the fire lays down as well. It is under patrol status for the night.
9:30 pm the fire is now estimated to be 150 to 200 acres. No more structures are threatened currently but the fire is still moving east towards crop fields.
Temp: 63f, 42% RH, 17mph winds gusting to 23.
7:46pm Fire spotter plane still airborne circling fire; air tankers returning to base
7:44pm Tanker 912 dropped near 8 Mile
7:40pm Air Tanker 912 making drop now
7:38pm Wasco County Sheriff reports that Gateway Church at 1111 Dry Hollow Road has been designated as a Red Cross Shelter. If you need assistance, please head to the church.
Emergency Information Line: 541-506-2792
Oregon Veterans Home is no longer evacuating - they are sheltering in place- fire engines staged on site protecting facility
7:27pm Winds slowing a bit down to 16mph, gusting to 22 mph
7:26pm Fire reported in bottom of 15 Mile
7:25pm air drops in progress on NE corner of fire
7:24pm Semi green wheat fields with farmers in them standing ready to help knock down fire
7:20pm Fire head is now west of 15 mile road above orchards
7:18pm 3 smaller firefighting aircraft inbound
7:15pm 2 VLAT (very large air tankers) enroute from Redmond airport
7:08pm PLEASE STOP SHARING PHOTOS OF HOMES BURNING!!!!
These are people’s homes that they are losing. Have some decency, please! Burning home photos will be deleted and users banned.
7:01pm
EVACUATION NOTICE
Level 3 (Go Now) evacuations ordered for the area East of Veterans Drive from Summit Drive to Eightmile Road and Viewpoint Road.
LEVEL 2: GET READY EVACUATION- East Eightmile Road to Company Hollow Road.
6:55 pm Fire is moving south up Auction Yard hill and to the east up 15 Mile Canyon toward Petersburg; following nearly same path as the July 2018 Substation Fire. Parts that are burning are already in that path, with some a bit more north east.
6:54pm Winds have increased and are now 29mph gusting up to 34mph
6:17pm Several structures reported on fire and destroyed; others threatened.
EVACUATIONS
6:01pm Oregon Veterans Home being evacuated as is View Point Mobile Home Park
5:48pm. Lyle and Wishram fire departments pages for mutual aid.
Conflagration declared
Houses threatened; propane tanks nearby
5:30 pm - Hood River task force called in to help
PLEASE AVOID THE AREA AND LET FIRST RESPONDERS WORK. NO DRONES
GPS Location: 45.598750, -121.133333
Responding Crews at 6.35 p.m. June 14th
E-9462
E-644
Bat 2-1
E-9465
SA Div 1
E-602
Fuels 1
E-601
E-9402
Responding Fire Departments:
Dallesport
Lyle
Wishram
Mid-Columbia Fire
Dufur
Hood River
ODF
National Forest Service Columbia Gorge Scenic Area
Local wheat farmers
Weather Conditions:
62°F, 34% relative humidity, Winds at 25 mph blowing WSW
