As of early morning - July 3, 2023

From the Skamania County Sheriff's Office Facebook

The fire perimeter is approximately 300 acres 0% contained. Several structures have been lost. Level 3 evacuation orders will stay in place overnight while firefighters use Cook Underwood Rd for active firefighting. Skamania Fairgrounds is set up with the Red Cross on-site to assist anyone who has been evacuated. Please register your phone if you have not yet through Skamaniasheriff.com Emergency notifications. See the outline map for the current evacuation.

Photo: Skamania County Sheriff Facebook
Photo: Skamania County Sheriff Facebook
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As of 4:30 p.m. July 2, 2023

According to the Washington Department of Natural Resources, a large fire continues to burn near Underwood and Cook, Washington (just west of White Salmon/Hood River) and is spreading rapidly.

Photo: Heidi Hinkson
Photo: Heidi Hinkson
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Up to 100 or more homes could be in the fire's path and Level 3 evacuation orders are in place for Cook and Underhill Road under the direction of the Skamania County Sheriff.

Photo: Heidi Hinkson
Photo: Heidi Hinkson
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The fire's cause is unknown at this time and is under investigation. If you plan to travel through the Gorge avoid Washington Highway 14. Take I-84 on the Oregon side.

This Hike in the Columbia River Gorge is a Must Experience

The Labyrinth to Coyote Wall Loop. It runs 6.7 miles with an elevation gain of 1,489 feet. It features a waterfall, lava tube, rock formations, and incredible views. It’s heavily trafficked with hikers and mountain bikers on weekends and dogs are welcome on a leash. Beware, you’ll need good hiking shoes as a good portion of the trail is very rocky. It’s open all year round, but the experts recommend day use from March to November.  

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