Firefighters Respond to Several Wind-driven Fires Across Region

Firefighters responded to multiple fires across the region over the holiday weekend as warm temperatures, dry fuels, and breezy conditions created elevated fire concerns in northeast Washington. Stevens County Fire District 1 reported several fires burning in the area, including a five-acre fire in the Fruitland/Hunters area and a 3.5-acre fire near Red Marble Mountain. District officials said the list was not all-inclusive and noted that other fires were also burning in the region, including a 1,800-plus-acre fire in Benton County that prompted state mobilization and a 30-plusacre fire east of Cheney in Spokane County, where at least one structure was lost. That fire was reported to be holding and about 75% contained. Most of the fires were described as wind-driven and burning in dry fuels. Fire officials said there were no weather warnings in place at the time, but higher winds throughout the weekend were a consideration. Stevens Fire District 2 responded to a fire just south of Hunters along Lake Roosevelt. The fire was contained at about five acres in steep terrain. According to the district, the fire was spotting ahead of crews when firefighters arrived, making initial containment difficult. Because of other fires burning in the region, air support and additional Department of Natural Resources (DNR) crews were not immediately available. Firefighters were able to control the fire, and the DNR took over monitoring the scene overnight. Stevens County Emergency Management also reported a wind-driven fire in the 3900 block of Red Marble Road. Officials said the fire was around 3.5 acres and nearly 80% lined as of the agency’s last update. DNR responded to the fire and emergency officials asked people recreating in the area to stay clear for their own safety and the safety of fire crews. County officials thanked DNR and local crews for their response, while also urging residents and visitors to use caution during the holiday weekend. Fire officials said that even small fires can become dangerous quickly. Stevens County Fire District 1 noted that a passerby reported a small fire off Casberg-Burroughs Road that was only about 10 feet by 10 feet before others helped extinguish it. Fire officials encouraged residents to avoid any outdoor fires over the next several days as temperatures remain warm, humidity stays low, and breezy conditions continue