It’s finally starting to rain in the Columbia River Gorge, which is welcome news for the crews fighting the Eagle Creek Fire. Firefighters have been battling this fire for more than two weeks now, after teenagers ignited the blaze with fireworks in Eagle Creek Canyon. Now that the rain has dampened the fire and the smoke has started to clear, we can begin to get a closer look at some of the damage in the region.
The fire has burned more than 35,000 acres already, and is currently about 46% contained.
Flickr/Oregon Department of Transportation This scenic area is one of the most majestic parts of the Beaver State.
While the rainfall in the forecast is good news, it does not mean that this area will be safe for hikers just yet.
Flickr/Oregon Department of Transportation More rain means that there is a greater risk for flash floods, landslides, and other hazards.
Many popular trails are expected to be closed until springtime.
YouTube/nspdx Angel’s Rest trail (pictured here) is one of the most treasured hikes in the gorge. It suffered severe damage in the fire and will likely be closed for months.
This tragic scene shows a damaged Oneonta Tunnel. It is a landmark location in the gorge.
Flickr/Oregon Department of Transportation The nearby Oneonta Gorge hike was also affected by the blaze. It is expected to be closed until spring.
Crews are currently inspecting roads and tunnels for damage.
Flickr/Oregon Department of Transportation Here, they are examining Tooth Rock Tunnel. This part of the Historic Columbia River Highway was engulfed in flames during the fire.
Other trails that are likely to be closed until spring include Wahclella Falls, Eagle Creek, Munra Point, Larch Mountain, and Horsetail Falls.
Flickr/Oregon Department of Transportation The forest service is planning to erect physical barricades at affected trailheads.
Since the fire started over Labor Day weekend, it has burned more than 52 square miles.
YouTube/nspdx It is estimated that the fire will be completely contained by September 30.See more scenes of the damage in this video, uploaded by YouTube user nspdx:
For more information and a list of trail closures, visit the Forest Service’s official website.
Flickr/Oregon Department of Transportation
This scenic area is one of the most majestic parts of the Beaver State.
More rain means that there is a greater risk for flash floods, landslides, and other hazards.
YouTube/nspdx
Angel’s Rest trail (pictured here) is one of the most treasured hikes in the gorge. It suffered severe damage in the fire and will likely be closed for months.
The nearby Oneonta Gorge hike was also affected by the blaze. It is expected to be closed until spring.
Here, they are examining Tooth Rock Tunnel. This part of the Historic Columbia River Highway was engulfed in flames during the fire.
The forest service is planning to erect physical barricades at affected trailheads.
It is estimated that the fire will be completely contained by September 30.See more scenes of the damage in this video, uploaded by YouTube user nspdx:
What are some of your favorite Columbia River Gorge memories? Please share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.
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