Top of the World Fire Grows to 240 Acres Following Prescribed Burn Jump
Photo by Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area - U.S. Forest Service
By Joshuah Albert
Bingen, Wash. Oct. 15, 2024 — Firefighters are working to contain the Top of the World Fire after windy conditions caused the prescribed burn to escape its perimeter Monday afternoon, spreading to approximately 240 acres in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area between Bingen and Lyle.
Winds are expected to blow between 8 and 11 mph today, according to the National Weather Service. A high chance of rain in the area for the next three days is also expected.
The controlled burn, began Monday morning and was intended to reduce hazardous fuels and promote forest health around the Coyote Wall and Catherine Creek trail systems. However, changing weather conditions resulted in several spot fires outside the burn unit, prompting a rapid response from fire crews in the area.
On Monday night, cooler temperatures helped moderate fire activity, allowing crews to construct a line around much of the fire’s perimeter. Firefighters from the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and partner agencies continued their work this morning, Oct. 15, focusing efforts on containing the fire under the rim closest to Catherine Creek.
Officials report that no structures are currently threatened, though smoke remains visible from Washington State Route 14 and Interstate 84. The public is advised to avoid the Coyote Wall and Catherine Creek trail areas while suppression efforts are ongoing.
Light to moderate smoke impacts are expected to continue through the night in nearby communities, and additional updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
