8/9/2014 PM Rowena Fire Update

Rowena Fire Evening Information Update August 9, 2014 Note: this will be the last evening news release from the Rowena Fire.

Summary Progress continues on the Rowena Fire with crews focused today on mop up adjacent to containment lines and around homes. Fire threat to the Adeline Way, Simonelli Road, and Foley Lakes communities continues to diminish and residents were allowed back into their homes late this morning. A small section of Highway 30 will continue to remain closed until further notice due to falling debris from steep slopes above the road. Structural protection Today, structure protection resources associated with the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office were released. However wildland crews remain engaged with mop up, detection of hot spots and other prevention strategies around area homes and structures. Evacuations/Road Closures Today, evacuation levels were reduced to a Level I (Get Ready) for all residents living on Highway 30 West.  Residents may return home at this time, but are reminded to be alert for changing conditions and cautious of firefighting efforts. Roadblocks on Highway 30 West remain in place with no through traffic on Highway 30 between the addresses of 4877 and 5220.  Residents living to the east of 4877 Highway 30, the intersection with Adeline Way, should access their homes via Interstate 84 exit 82.  This includes Tooley Terrace, Adeline Way, and Simonellli Road. Residents living to the west of 5220 Highway 30 should access their homes via Interstate 84 exit 76. Safety tips and information for residents who are returning to their homes can be found here on the Oregon Fire Marshal’s website:  http://www.oregon.gov/osp/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/After_a_wildfire.pdf The evacuation shelter that had been set up by the Red Cross at Dry Hollow Elementary School has closed. Fire strategy for tonight Tonight firefighters will undertake several objectives: Crews will continue to improve line, conduct infrared operations and continue mop up around structures. Warnings Weekends bring an influx of visitors to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.  The public is urged to be mindful of personal safety and ongoing firefighting operations, and not to stop along Interstate 84 to take photos or observe firefighting operations.