Rowena Fire Burns 49 Homes, 3,800 Acres Near The Dalles, Evacuations Remain

Out-of-control Oregon wildfire forces evacuations and destroys homes as gusty winds challenge firefighters

By Mary Gilbert, CNN Meteorologist (CNN) — A wildfire burning out of control in Oregon, near the state’s border with Washington, has destroyed homes and forced hundreds of evacuations and closures of major roadways as gusty winds threaten further spread and challenge firefighting crews. The Rowena Fire has burned 3,800 acres since it ignited on Wednesday afternoon in Wasco County, according to the Oregon State Fire Marshal. It’s 0% contained as …

Human-caused Rowena Fire near The Dalles threatens 800 homes

The Rowena Fire has grown to more than 3,800 acres near The Dalles and left 8,000 residents under evacuation orders. About 50 miles to the southeast, the Ferry Fire in Sherman County was at about 9,000 acres Friday morning, prompting closure of the John Day River at Cottonwood Canyon State Park.

Rowena Fire burns 49 homes, 3,800 acres near The Dalles, evacuations remain

As of Friday afternoon, Level 3 evacuation orders decreased from 824 to 575 homes. 1,718 homes remain under Level 2 evacuation notices, and 1,547 under Level 1.

Fire Officials: Rowena Fire grows to 3,800 acres, 49 homes destroyed

The Rowena Fire has burned 3,831 acres and remains uncontained.

49 homes destroyed in Rowena Fire, more expected

Firefighters made progress on the Rowena Fire overnight despite strong winds, holding the blaze at 3,831 acres with no containment. A community meeting is set for 7 p.m. Friday at The Dalles High School for updates on fire behavior and evacuations.

Rowena Fire Near The Dalles Grows to 3,500 Acres