Fire rapidly spreading in Skamania County; structures threatened, evacuations underway

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – A rapidly spreading wildfire is forcing Skamania County residents to evacuate their homes as the fire, named the “Tunnel 5 Fire,” threatens roughly 100 structures in the Underwood area of the Columbia River Gorge.

The fire broke out near Milepost 61 on State Route 14 around 11:20 a.m. Sunday, officials said.

Washington Department of Natural Resources spokesperson Jessa Lewis told KOIN 6 News that firefighters are actively fighting the fire, estimated at 150 acres and growing as of 5 p.m. There is also a "high threat potential" and more air support is on the way. Authorities said it is burning in timber and brush.

“They are in the initial attack phase so it's hard to get much detail,” Lewis said.

Evacuation orders are currently issued for Crook Underhill Road within a two-mile radius of the fire. Evacuees are sheltering at the Rock Creek Hegewald Center at the Skamania County Fairgrounds, where the Red Cross is providing resources. The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office has sent a reverse 911 call to residents in the evacuation area. The latest evacuation information is also available through Hyper-Reach or through the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at (509) 427-9490.

Firefighting agencies on scene include Skamania County Fire District 3, Skamania County Fire District 1, Klickitat County Fire District 3, White Salmon Fire, the Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service. Firefighters are also attacking the fire from the air, dropping both water and fire retardant in the area.

The Washington State Fire Services Mobilization Plan is supporting the local firefighters and sending personnel to the scene. They will coordinate the resources remotely, officials said.

The fire is not contained at this time. KOIN 6 News will continue to monitor the fire’s progress. More information will be provided when it becomes available.