WHITMAN COUNTY, Wash. – Level 3 (go now!) evacuations for the 750-acre wildfire in the Snake River Canyon at Nisqually John Landing in southern Whitman County are in effect.
The Nisqually Fire began on June 14, 2024, around 8:38 a.m., and is estimated to have already spread across 750 acres.
It is burning through grass and brush, posing a threat to homes, crops and infrastructure. Level 3 evacuations are currently in effect. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
UPDATE 5:43 P.M.
A large 300-acre wildfire is burning in the Snake River Canyon at Nisqually John Landing in southern Whitman County, with fire crews trying to contain it.
According to the Asotin County Fire District 1, on June 13, firefighters were dispatched around 8 a.m. to a fire blazing along the Snake River, approximately 12 miles west of Clarkston. Whitman County Fire District 14 enlisted assistance from neighboring regions.
With winds gusting between 30 to 40 mph, the fire is rapidly spreading southward. Fortunately, no homes were initially under threat this morning.
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is providing air support, deploying helicopters and scooper planes.
As of now, the cause of the fire remains unknown. Smoke from the fire is drifting into the Lewiston Clarkston Valley.
UPDATE 1:52 P.M.
A large 75-acre wildfire is burning in the Snake River Canyon at Nisqually John Landing in southern Whitman County, with fire crews trying to contain it.
According to Whitman County Fire District 14, firefighters are battling a canyon fire along Wawawai Road near Nisqually John Landing.
Whitman firefighters urge drivers and residents to avoid Wawawai Road and Steptoe Canyon Road whenever possible. Additionally, firefighters have announced the closure of water access on the Snake River.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined, and firefighting teams are continuing their investigation and efforts to suppress the blaze.
