Fire Update: Newell Road Fire at 59k+ acres, 40% Containment
Photo from Newell Road Fire Facebook Page
By Cole Goodwin
Goldendale, WA, July 26, 2023 - The Newell Road Fire continues to pose a significant threat. The 59,858 acre fire is currently at 40% containment; multiple evacuation orders and road closures remain in effect.
The southeast corner of the fire has been contained due to the high priority placed on building containment lines there in order to protect the One Hill Photo Baltic Plant, the Roosevelt Area Landfill and Gas to Energy Plant.
However, the northwest portion of the fire remains active and continues to be closely monitored. Crews are focused on this area, making significant progress with the establishment of dozer lines over rugged terrain and performing burnout operations to reduce fuel near the containment lines. Air and on the ground support has been a crucial asset in battling the fire, and 564 personnel are actively involved in containment and suppression efforts.
The rugged terrain has made things difficult for firefighters. Yesterday a tender rolled resulting in non-threatening injuries to the driver who received medical attention and has been discharged from the the hospital.
Photo from Newell Road Fire Facebook Page
Grayback Forestry checking hotspots, mopping up and securing Division Gulf on the north east flank. Afternoon on Tuesday July 25th. Wood creek runs through this division with steep and rugged terrain. Photo from Newell Road Fire Facebook Page
“Northwest Magangement team 8 and local official s remain fully committed toprotect communities from this fire and will not let up until we achieve that goal.” Allen Lebovitz, Wildlife Fire Liason.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this time, and the number of structures lost in the fire is also still unknown as non-fire personnel have not been able to assess damages while the fire is still active and ongoing.
Evacuation notices are still in effect, for the most up to date information on evacuation notices please click here.
Photo from: https://sartopo.com/m/5MQBP/?fbclid=IwAR2EUHmvkM0N8ennGDDfeTQuFRxXGed09HjO7UGPybmwVmdB0cvWUbvnGl8
American Red Cross Evacuation shelters are available at Goldendale Middle School, 520 E. Collins St, Goldendale, WA, and at Grandview MIddle School located at 1401 W 2nd St, Grandview, WA for those in need of a safe place.
Road closures remain in place for Roosevelt Grade Road, Old Highway 8 North including Dot Road, Rock Creek Road, Bickleton Highway between Old Mountain Road and the county line, Hoctor Road east of Oak Flat. Highway 14 is also closed to all except local traffic in the area of the fire.
For the latest updates and evacuations, please refer to the Klickitat County Emergency Management Facebook page.
