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Floating Homes Engulfed in Columbia River Fire
30 May
Summary
- Multiple floating homes damaged in a significant river fire.
- Fire crews faced challenges establishing a water supply.
- Eight floating homes were affected by the blaze.

Early this morning, fire crews were dispatched to a substantial fire impacting the Pier West Community's floating homes on the Columbia River. The blaze, which began just after 4 a.m., quickly escalated, affecting an estimated eight homes located west of the I-5 bridge. Portland Fire & Rescue responded with multiple fire boats, while crews navigated the unique challenges of working on and near the water. Establishing a consistent water supply proved to be an initial hurdle for firefighters. Once a water source was secured, crews extended hose lines down the gangplank to combat the flames spreading across the docks and homes. The situation required a second alarm to bring in additional resources. An investigator has been called to the scene to determine the origin and cause of the fire.