Update: Crews have made “tremendous progress” and say the risk to the public is much, much lower as the 243 Command Fire is now reported at 18,774 acres and 50 percent contained.
The Grant County Sheriff’s Office shared the latest update on the fire on behalf of the Incident Management Team. They report fire conditions with much smaller areas actively burning.
Previous coverage: A public information officer for the 243 Command Fire says the fire is now 50% contained.
The estimated acreage of the fire remains at 15,000 acres.
Previous Coverage:A PIO for the 243 Command Fire has clarified that the blaze is currently involving 15,000 acres.
Previous Coverage: The 243 Command Fire in Grant County has grown to an estimated 18,774 acres, but is now reported 25 percent contained Wednesday morning.
The Southeast Washington Interagency Incident Management Team says two minor injuries have been reported and one garage has been damaged, but no residences have.
Resources include four aircraft and 380 personnel. Level 3 evacuations remain in place for Smyrma.
Crews plan to aggressively attack the fire when possible, with the safety of public and firefighters a top priority, while considering the value of natural and commercial resources at risk.
With an incoming cold front, an emphasis continues to minimize acres burned.
#WaWILDFIRE UPDATE: #243Fire in Grant Co. is estimated at 18,774 acres, as of Wednesday morning. It’s 25% contained. DNR is assisting BLM by sending 2 helicopters, 2 small planes (fire bosses), 20 firefighters and two strike teams of engines. Follow @GrantCoSheriff for evac info.— Washington State DNR Wildfire (@waDNR_fire) June 5, 2019
Previous coverage:
GRANT COUNTY – A wildfire that ignited near the Wanapum Dam continues to burn 5,000 acres.
Firefighters say a significant night shift is in place to provide point protection.
There are about 400 personnel and two fire bosses, multiple helicopters, one air tanker, and air attack working to fight flames.
No homes have been reported as damaged.
Road closures remain in effect.
A Red Cross evacuation shelter is located at the Royal City Intermediate School. Food, water, and a shelter for anyone in an evacuation zone is available.
The Grant County Fairgrounds is open for sheltering livestock. They have bedding and water available but no feed.
Public lands near the area have been closed.
