Blewett Pass Wildfire Forces Closure of U.S. 97 in Washington

Evacuations Ordered as Blaze Spreads Rapidly

A wildfire burning near Blewett Pass in Washington state has forced the closure of U.S. 97 and prompted evacuation orders for nearby communities. The fire, which started on August 11, has already consumed over 10,000 acres and is threatening homes and businesses in the area.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has closed U.S. 97 between milepost 142 near Blewett Pass and milepost 170 near Wenatchee. The closure is expected to remain in effect for several days as firefighters work to contain the blaze.

Firefighters from multiple agencies are battling the blaze, but strong winds and dry conditions are making it difficult to control.

Evacuations Ordered

Evacuation orders have been issued for the following areas:

• The community of Blewett
• The area west of U.S. 97 from milepost 148 to 155
• The area east of U.S. 97 from milepost 159 to 169

Residents in these areas are urged to evacuate immediately. An evacuation center has been set up at the Chelan County Fairgrounds in Wenatchee.

How to Help

If you would like to help those affected by the Blewett Pass wildfire, you can make a donation to the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army.

You can also follow the latest updates on the fire at the Washington State Department of Natural Resources website.