A pair of fast-moving wildfires in Washington State triggered Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders in Klickitat and Grant counties over the past week, forcing residents and campers to flee before crews brought the fires under control. Both fires have since seen evacuation orders reduced or lifted entirely, though fire conditions across the state remain volatile.

Peterson Fire — Klickitat County

The Peterson Fire ignited Friday afternoon, June 26, in eastern Klickitat County near Peterson Road and Alderdale Road. Driven by gusty west winds of 25–35 mph, the fire quickly grew to an estimated 4,200 acres. Klickitat County Emergency Management issued Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders for residents in the immediate fire area.

Smoke from the Peterson Fire drifted north and east, impacting air quality in the Tri-Cities region and prompting health advisories for sensitive groups. By the afternoon of June 26, officials confirmed all evacuation notifications tied to the Peterson Fire had been rescinded after containment lines were established. No structures were reported destroyed.

Garred Road Fire — Grant County

The Garred Road Fire broke out northwest of Coulee City on June 21 and quickly exploded in size, ballooning to over 3,500 acres after rekindling in dry, breezy conditions. The blaze burned through sage and brush and threatened primary and secondary structures, wheat fields, and the popular Sun Lakes State Park Campground.

Grant County Sheriff officials issued Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders for the Sun Lakes camping area and adjacent properties. State Route 17 and U.S. Highway 2 were temporarily closed at the height of the emergency. Washington State Patrol authorized State Fire Mobilization, bringing additional engines and personnel from across the state.

By Tuesday, June 23, the Southeast Washington Interagency Incident Management Team established solid fire lines to prevent further growth. Evacuations were downgraded to Level 1 "Be Ready," and roads were reopened. The fire ultimately burned approximately 3,500 acres.

Know Your Evacuation Levels

Washington uses a three-level evacuation system:

  • Level 1 – Be Ready: Be aware and prepare to leave. Have your go-bag packed.
  • Level 2 – Be Set: Be prepared to leave quickly. Vulnerable populations should consider leaving now.
  • Level 3 – Go Now: Leave immediately. Do not wait for instructions. Road closures may be imminent.

Residents throughout Eastern Washington are encouraged to register for emergency alerts through their county emergency management offices and to have an evacuation plan in place before fire conditions deteriorate further.