A fast-moving wildfire dubbed the Rowena Fire tore through Wasco County, Oregon on June 11 and 12, 2025, destroying at least 20 homes and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. The blaze consumed an estimated 1 400 hectares (3 500 acres) near The Dalles, as strong winds and dry vegetation fueled its rapid spread.
Ignition and Rapid Growth
The fire ignited late on June 11 in the Columbia River Gorge near Rowena, west of The Dalles. Dry grasses and gusty winds up to 64 km/h (40 mph) quickly turned the initial spark into a major wildfire. By the next morning, the fire had grown dramatically and was threatening over 2,000 structures in the area.
Evacuations and Destruction
Evacuation orders were issued for more than 700 homes, with pre-evacuation notices in place for another 1,300 properties, affecting over 3,000 residents in total. Emergency shelters were established in The Dalles and Tygh Valley by the American Red Cross and local agencies.
So far:
- 20+ homes destroyed
- 0% containment as of June 13, 18:00 local time
- 400+ firefighting personnel are battling the fire with aerial and ground support
Firefighters are working hard to contain the #RowenaFire in Oregon, burning along the Columbia River Gorge.
— WeatherNation (@WeatherNation) June 13, 2025
Unfortunately this fire has destroyed over 20 homes in Wasco County.
Multiple fires have started this week in the Northwest after record breaking heat. #ORwx pic.twitter.com/eqXuAynCak
Human-Caused Ignition and Statewide Response
Officials confirmed that the fire was human-caused, although the exact circumstances remain under investigation. In response to the fire’s intensity and threat, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act, enabling a full mobilization of state firefighting resources.
“This fire has the potential to overwhelm local capacity,” said Mariana Ruiz-Temple, Oregon State Fire Marshal. “We are mobilizing every tool available.”
Infrastructure Impacts and Ongoing Risks
- Interstate 84 was shut down for nearly 32 km (20 miles) between Hood River and The Dalles due to fire activity and smoke.
- Portions of Historic Highway 30 also remain closed.
- Some stretches of I-84 reopened later on June 12, but officials warned that conditions could change quickly.
Fire Weather Concerns and Seasonal Outlook
The National Weather Service (NWS) had issued a Red Flag Warning prior to the fire, citing:
- Warm, dry conditions
- Very low live fuel moisture
- High winds
These combined factors led to explosive fire behavior, a warning sign for what could be a long and dangerous wildfire season.
“This is a wake-up call,” said Travis Medema, Chief Deputy at the State Fire Marshal’s Office. “The conditions are in place for a severe season across the Pacific Northwest.”
No injuries or fatalities have been reported as of June 13.
#RowenaFire Update | Wasco County, Oregon:
— FireMap.live 🔥🌎 (@disaster_db) June 13, 2025
FEMA approved emergency funds Thursday afternoon following the state's request to protect homes near Rowena, I-84, Port of The Dalles, Union Pacific Railroad, and the Columbia River Gorge area. https://t.co/nr05LgIV3d pic.twitter.com/mtBfOdowtA
