Fast-Moving Lyle Fire Forces Evacuations as Crews Defend Community
By Joshuah Albert
Lyle, Wash., June 28, 2026 — A fast-moving wildfire near Lyle, Washington, prompted Level 2 and Level 3 evacuation notices Sunday afternoon as strong winds pushed flames toward the community and fire crews rushed to protect homes and critical infrastructure.
The fire, referred to as the Lyle Hill Fire, was reported around 1:40 p.m. west of Lyle and rapidly expanded under gusty wind conditions. According to the Columbia Gorge Wildland & Fire Information Page, the fire had grown to an estimated 2,500 acres by midafternoon, although no official acreage estimate had been released.
By 3 p.m., the fire had reportedly traveled approximately 2 miles from its point of origin and covered nearly 6 square miles as winds reached 27 mph with gusts up to 51 mph. Smoke from the fire drifted across the Columbia River into The Dalles.
The Mt. Adams Area Emergency & Information page reported that Level 2 ("Be Set") and Level 3 ("Go Now") evacuation notices had been issued for areas around Lyle. Evacuation boundaries continued to expand throughout the afternoon, including along Centerville Road to Struck Road.
Emergency crews concentrated resources on protecting the town of Lyle as the fire crossed ridges above the community and advanced toward Centerville Road. Brush units responded to Lyle School, while multiple aircraft, including Fire Boss scoopers and Black Hawk helicopters, were dispatched to support suppression efforts.
The Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail was evacuated during the incident, with hikers instructed to return to their vehicles as quickly as possible. Centerville Highway was also closed as fire activity intensified.
As of late Sunday afternoon, firefighters were working to slow the fire's advance while protecting homes and other structures. No injuries or structure losses had been officially reported.
Residents in the affected area are urged to monitor official evacuation notices and be prepared to leave immediately if conditions worsen.
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