HOOD RIVER, OR (KPTV) -
A wildfire in the Columbia Gorge has burned 70 acres and has shut down an eastbound lane of Interstate 84 three miles east of Hood River.
However, calm conditions Wednesday gave firefighters an advantage. The fire is 5 percent contained and doesn't pose a threat to homes or buildings in the area.
The Milepost 66 Fire was reported just after 8 p.m. Tuesday. By mid-morning Wednesday, it had jumped a stretch of Old Columbia River Drive, which is used only by pedestrians and bicyclists.
Lt. Tiffany Peterson, from the Wyeast Fire District, said the fire is burning in steep terrain with burning logs and falling rocks, making it hazardous for fire crews.
"It's very steep, very dangerous," Peterson said. "We actually have personnel dedicated to doing nothing other than watching for any of these hazards, watching out for their crew members and trying to keep them safe."
Peterson said the terrain remains the biggest complication for the fire, and that the weather is not a factor at this time.
Firefighting helicopters made constant water drops during daylight hours Wednesday, aggressively attacking the flames from above.
There have been no injuries reported, and the nearest buildings are located a couple of miles away from the fire, which is near the Mark Hatfield Trailhead between Hood River and Mosier. The fire is moving away from the closest home, officials said.
Up to 80 people are involved in fighting the fire, as of Wednesday evening.
The cause of the fire is still not clear. There were no lightning strikes in the area Tuesday night.
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