Mainly sunny to start, then a few afternoon clouds. Areas of smoke and haze are possible, reducing visibility at times. High around 85F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph..
Mostly clear. Areas of smoke and haze are possible, reducing visibility at times. Low 58F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Updated: August 11, 2026 @ 6:35 am
“Several years ago, during one of the many wildfires that have swept through the Pacific Northwest, I wrote the following poem,” writes Leah Stenson of Mt. Hood-Parkdale. “With the Grasshopper Fire now threatening communities in our area, the circumstances that inspired these words are with us again. I share them here because, sadly, wildfire has become part of our landscape and our lives.”
•••
Ash isn’t falling here yet
and the sky isn’t fiery red, but
across the field, cottonwoods,
pale phantoms shrouded in smoke,
signal a warning.
Looking east at a dull pink disk
in a chalk-gray sky, confusion
gives way to understanding.
I’m staring at the naked sun,
monarch of the sky.
Like so many souls in this state,
I repent not being ready,
no time to consider
how to leave, what to take.
— Leah Stenson
•••
Previously published in Tipton Poetry Journal. Reprinted with permission of the author. Stenson is the author of four poetry books, a hybrid memoir, and co-editor of the award-winning Reverberations from Fukushima. She lives in Mt. Hood-Parkdale and hosts the long-running Studio Series Poetry Reading & Open Mic in Portland.
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