WENATCHEE, Wash. – Chelan County Emergency Management has announced that all evacuation levels for the Balsam Root Fire in East Wenatchee are being downgraded to a Level 1 (Be Ready) advisory.
However, a Red Flag warning remains in effect throughout the day.
UPDATE 11:47 P.M.
According to Washington Department of Natural Resources, the fire which was at 85 acres has now grown to 250 acres.
Washington DNR said multiple air and ground resources are engaged. Recreational watercraft are asked to give distance to aircraft using local waterways for operations.
UPDATE 11:04 P.M.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office announced Level 1 (Be Ready!) evacuations for Canyon Road, Day Drive, Lester Road, Sage Hills Drive, Austin Ct, Deer Haven Lane and Doe Meadow Lane.
State fire assistance has been activated under the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan to aid local firefighters battling the Balsam Root Fire near Wenatchee in Chelan County.
The Balsam Root Fire ignited on July 5, around 3:00 a.m. Currently, it spans approximately 85 acres with ongoing growth. The fire is consuming grass, brush, and sage, posing threats to structures and homes. Level 2 and 3 evacuations are currently underway. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
UPDATE 9:26 A.M.
Level 3 evacuations (Go Now!) have been issued for the wildfire in Wenatchee.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office has declared a Level 3 Fire Evacuation for Horselake and Broadview Wenatchee. The affected area spans are Westwick Road, Kookaburro Run, Westview Drive, Westmoreland Drive, Maple Street West of the Canal.
Chelan County Emergency Management warns of an imminent threat to residents’ safety and advises monitoring local radio stations and their Facebook page for updates.
National Weather Service for Spokane said a Red Flag Warning has been issued for Friday 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. in the area.
If you’re unsure whether your home or business is in danger, click the link here and search your address to see if your home is in the evacuation area.
This is a developing story and more details will be revealed later.
