Evacuations ordered as Cow Canyon Fire explodes in Central Washington; 0% contained
The Cow Canyon Fire was first assessed at 5 acres but has since grown to approximately 5,600 acres. It's threatening about 50 homes near Selah in Central Washington.
Cow Canyon Fire in Washington destroys 10+ homes, forces evacuations
A wildfire burning in southeast Washington has destroyed 10 homes and caused the entire town of Lind to be evacuated.
SELAH, Wash. – Evacuations have been ordered as a wildfire spreads in Yakima County, Washington.
The Cow Canyon Fire was first assessed at 5 acres but has since grown to approximately 5,600 acres. It's threatening about 50 homes near the town of Selah, outside of Yakima in Central Washington. No significant injuries have been reported to residents or the 300 firefighting personnel.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER ON TV
Level 2 and 3 evacuations are in place in Yakima and Kittitas counties. The entirety of the Wenas Wildlife Area is also temporarily closed for safety.
HOW WILDFIRE BURN SCARS COULD HAVE LASTING IMPACTS
The wildfire is 0% contained since first reported about 2:45 p.m. Pacific time Wednesday. Multiple crews and aircraft are on scene as the fire burns grass, brush and timber in the moderately tricky terrain, authorities said.
The fire is currently burning approximately 11 miles north of Naches, Washington, through the Manastash border.
Air resources are using local bodies of water, including Wenas Lake, to fill. Recreational boaters should be aware of aircraft takeoff and landings and keep a safe distance.
HOW THE LAY OF THE LAND AFFECTS WILDFIRE BEHAVIOR
Winds were expected to shift to the northeast late Friday morning, which may cause an increase in fire activity, authorities said. There are also many pockets of unburned fuel that will readily burn as the temperatures rise and the humidity drops significantly.
Anyone displaced by the fire can call the American Red Cross at 509-457-1690.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX WEATHER UPDATE PODCAST
The FOX Weather app is a great resource that can be used to alert you of any watches or warnings issued for your area. The free FOX Weather livestream is also available 24/7 on the website and app and on your favorite streaming platform. The FOX Weather Update podcast also provides weather information for the entire country.