4 minutes

Dennis Katsnelson

An alarming incident unfolded on Monday night as a small brush fire ignited in close proximity to a beloved Oregon landmark. Prompt action was taken by Cascade Locks Fire and EMS, in collaboration with Corbett Fire District 14 and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area U.S. Forest Service, who swiftly responded to the emergency. The brush fire erupted east of Multnomah Falls, with the first reports coming in just before 10 p.m.

We took this video from KPTV FOX 12 Oregon YouTube Channel.

According to initial assessments, the fire encompassed an estimated half-acre of land. However, the dedicated efforts of the responding crews effectively contained the flames, preventing further spread. Despite this success, authorities have decided to maintain a presence at the scene to ensure any potential hot spots are thoroughly extinguished. The cause of the brush fire remains unknown at this time, leaving investigators to diligently determine its origin.

As a precautionary measure, the Historic Columbia River Highway has been temporarily closed between Multnomah Falls and Oneonta Trailhead. This closure aims to facilitate the ongoing mop-up efforts undertaken by the dedicated fire crews. While inconveniences arise due to the closure, the safety and preservation of the landmark and its surroundings take precedence.

This alarming incident serves as a reminder of the ever-present threat of wildfires and the vital role played by swift and coordinated response efforts. The collaboration between multiple fire departments and agencies highlights the importance of interagency cooperation in combating such emergencies. The community remains grateful for the quick actions of the responding teams and hopes for a thorough investigation to shed light on the cause of the brush fire, ensuring future preventative measures can be taken to safeguard cherished landmarks like Multnomah Falls.