Microwave Fire Reaches 65% Containment

Fire officials urge everyone to use extra caution when returning to areas that have been affected by the fire.

Map of Microwave Fire Courtesy: inciweb.org

(MICROWAVE, Ore.) - Shortly after residents returned home from the Microwave Fire evacuation, fire crews performed successful burnout operations to strengthen containment lines on the northwest flank of the fire.

Nancy Hirsch, Incident Commander with the Oregon Department of Forestry, says the fire is now fully lined, with containment at 65% and 1,250 acres burned.

"With the threat to homes alleviated, task forces from the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office have begun demobilization," Hirsch stated in a news release.

"Prior to the arrival of task forces, three residences and a barn were lost to the fire. To date, more than 150 structures were triaged, prepared, and protected during this incident."

The State Historic Columbia River Highway Trail and the Hatfield east and west trail heads remain closed. For current road information, log onto tripcheck.com.

Access roads leading into the fire perimeter also remain closed to the public.

Fire officials urge everyone to use extra caution when returning to areas that have been affected by the fire. Firefighting resources are still going to be in the area so drivers should remain alert and slow down for emergency vehicles and firefighters.

Other agencies involved in the operation include Oregon State Police, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area of the U.S. Forest Service, Oregon State Parks, Oregon Department of Transportation, Pacific Power and Line, Union Pacific Railroad, the Red Cross and Rural Fire Districts.