Stefan Myers, who serves as spokesman for the Gaston Rural Fire District in his capacity as a trained public information officer for Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue, provided an update around 5:30 p.m. Thursday as the fire approached Cherry Grove.
Myers noted that the fire was reported around 11 a.m. Thursday and said the fire, which started in the Lee Falls Road area, was spotted from Cherry Grove and quickly spread north and northwest.
(For the latest evacuation information, visit the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.)
“Basically all of the fire departments in Washington County are on scene to respond,” he said. A Yamhill County task force was also quickly assembled.
“They were trying to get around the fire on both sides and get it under control while trying to protect the buildings in the area,” he said.
The fire spread as the wind shifted, Myers said, adding it jumped the Tualatin River. It was last estimated at 100 acres, but is now likely larger, Myers said.
“They’re trying to get anchor points, they’re trying to flank the fire, they’re trying to get control, while at the same time being aware that the weather conditions are not very favorable,” he said.
The temperature was around 35 degrees most of the day.
Oregon Forest Service helicopters and aircraft were directed at the fire from Hagg Lake, resulting in the lake and subsequently the park being closed for much of Thursday.
The fire burned in a mixture of grass, brush and standing trees.
One firefighter sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene; he did not require transportation. A community member also sustained minor injuries and chose to take a private vehicle to get medical attention.
Myers urged area residents to be vigilant, pay attention to fire causes and keep an eye on evacuation levels.
“Their lives are the most important thing for us firefighters,” he said.
the Cherry Grove fire on August 8, 2024. Photo: Chas Hundley
the Cherry Grove fire on August 8, 2024. Photo: Chas Hundley
Chas Hundley is editor of the Banks Post and sister publications Gales Creek Journal and Salmonberry Magazine. He grew up in Gales Creek and has a cat.
