Updated 8/21/2016 @ 2045 Hours

This fire can been seen from the Wapato Fire Station. (Photo Credit: FF Greg Klutts/YCFD5)

INCIDENT SUMMARY

Start Date/Time

A wildfire has broken out on Highway 97 and Mile post 55 in the Lower Valley of Yakima County, Washington on Sunday, August 21, 2016 around 1850 hours.

Cause

The cause is unknown.  Historical fire information has shown that there has already been about 8 arson fires in the area.  There is no confirmation that this one may be linked with the same human-intervention.

Size / Fuels

The fire is wind-driven and is between 200-300 acres in heavy sage brush.

Threats

Residences and outbuildings are now being threatened.  No word on if any evacuation warnings and orders have been given yet.

RESOURCES

Fire Resources

There are resources from Yakima County Fire District 5 and  Yakama Nation along with two dozers from each Agency.  Earlier, they had three helicopters but have gone out of service for the evening.

CURRENT FIRE CONDITIONS

Fire Behavior

This fire behavior is very active and has been reportedly jumped the dozed lines multiple times. It is now threatening an unknown number of homes and outbuildings.  Winds are said to be very strong.

It is unknown if firefighters will continue with night operations are to be taken place.  New firefighters will be joining original fire crews on Monday around 0700 hours.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Hashtags

This is an unnamed fire and we are dubbing it #TuleRdFire  #WaWILDFIRE  #NWFireBlogWA.

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