Fire season underway in Washington with 7,800-acre blaze in Grant County

Washington’s summer fire season got one of its first big blazes of the year over the weekend, as homes and businesses near Mattawa—in neighboring Grant County—have been evacuated.

The fire, dubbed the Powerline Fire, began around 12:30 p.m. on July 14 and has spread to about 7,800 acres. According to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office on July 15, the fire spread to about 5,000 acres in less than 24 hours, had low containment and was headed east due to the wind. According to the most recent update, the fire is now 65% contained.

The fire, according to a Facebook post from the sheriff’s office, is burning sagebrush and grasslands on steep terrains that do not provide safe access for firefighters. Fifteen homes and businesses have been impacted by evacuation notices, while the larger surrounding area is being told to prepare for the possibility that they may need to evacuate.

Along with house and business structures, livestock, farm buildings, farmland orchards and electrical and communications infrastructure are also at risk from the fire. The sheriff’s office also wrote that “if you are not a resident of that area or if you are not assisting a resident of that area, stay off the roads.” As of print deadline, no structures are reported to have been damaged or lost yet.

The Washington State Patrol authorized four strike teams from its Fire Protection Bureau to help aid firefighters in their attempts to contain the blaze. The incident command post and an emergency shelter have been set up at Wahluke High School.

The sheriff’s office said they believe the fire was accidentally caused by a motorcycle that tipped over and ignited grass while on a motorcycle trail, but the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

During Washington’s wildfire season, local and state officials regularly stress to residents to be aware of the three emergency evacuation alert levels.

A Level 1 evacuation alert means that there is no immediate danger, but residents should be aware of a nearby fire. Residents should review their evacuation plans and gather items needed if evacuation becomes necessary. People should also make plans to move pets and/or livestock.

A Level 2 evacuation alert indicates that there is a significant risk in the area. A mandatory evacuation could be issued at any time. Residents should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or with family or friends outside the area.

A Level 3 evacuation alert is the highest alert and means that there is immediate danger in the area. Residents must leave the area. In the case of evacuations, officials will try and go door-to-door to alert residents of the need to evacuate. Residents will not be allowed to return until conditions are safe.

The Washington State Department of Health also advises people to put together a 72-hour emergency supply kit. The kit should include, water, food, medication and protective clothing, such as sturdy shoes, cotton or wool clothing, long pants and long-sleeved shirts.

The department also recommends people to store copies of their vital records, lists, photos, videotapes and valuable items in a safety deposit box, and to also include updated insurance policies.