YAKIMA COUNTY, Wash. – The Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District declared a state of emergency for the Retreat Fire in the Rimrock area, according to a press release.
YTID says the fire started near its river diversion upstream of Rimrock Retreat and is moving along its main canal.
Long-term delivery interruptions are “imminent” if slides, trees or debris impact the canal. A “rolling shutdown” is being implemented system-by-system to reduce canal levels and infrastructure risks.
“We are working closely with local and state authorities to mitigate the impacts of the wildfire, and return service to normal operations as soon as possible,” said the District. “Our priority is to safeguard lives, property, and minimize impacts to the environment and water infrastructure. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this challenging time.”
Below is a map of the YTID systems and a calendar of when each system will be shut down:
