Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders remain in effect for multiple communities in Walla Walla County, Washington, as the Lambdin Fire continues burning near the Wallula Junction. The fire, which ignited June 29 and rapidly expanded to more than 13,000 acres by nightfall, has displaced residents from rural areas north of Touchet and prompted the opening of Red Cross emergency shelters.

Evacuation Zones and Levels

Walla Walla County Emergency Management has established the following evacuation levels:

  • Level 3 — Go Now: Immediate evacuation orders for areas directly threatened by the Lambdin Fire near the Wallula Junction. Residents in Level 3 zones must leave immediately — do not wait to gather belongings.
  • Level 2 — Be Set: Areas east of Touchet, north to Highway 124. Residents in Level 2 zones should be packed and ready to leave at a moment's notice. Monitor official channels continuously.

Emergency officials stressed that evacuation zone boundaries can change rapidly as fire behavior shifts with wind and humidity. Residents in surrounding areas should remain vigilant even if not currently under an evacuation order.

Emergency Shelters Open

The American Red Cross has opened emergency evacuation shelters in both Touchet and Prescott to support displaced residents. Evacuees should bring essential medications, identification documents, phone chargers, and supplies for pets or livestock if possible.

  • Touchet — Red Cross Shelter (contact Walla Walla County Emergency Management for address)
  • Prescott — Red Cross Shelter (contact Walla Walla County Emergency Management for address)

Large animal and livestock owners in affected areas should contact local emergency management for assistance coordinating evacuations for animals, as rural properties in the region include vineyards, farms, and equestrian facilities.

Road Closures

Multiple roads remain closed due to active fire operations and safety concerns:

  • Nine Mile Road
  • Byrnes Road
  • Ash Hollow Road
  • Touchet N. Road

Washington State Department of Transportation advises all drivers to avoid Highway 12 in the affected stretch whenever possible and follow detour instructions from Washington State Patrol officers. Smoke conditions can change rapidly, creating sudden zero-visibility situations that have already led to multiple vehicle collisions in the area.

Notable Structures Threatened

The Cameo Heights Mansion, a well-known luxury bed and breakfast near Touchet, was among the structures threatened when the fire first erupted Monday morning. Fire crews worked to protect the building and other rural properties in the region.

How to Stay Informed

Residents should use multiple channels to stay current on rapidly evolving conditions:

  • Follow Walla Walla County Emergency Management on Facebook for official zone updates
  • Monitor Washington State Patrol District 3 on social media (@wspd3pio)
  • Sign up for Walla Walla County emergency alert notifications
  • Check InciWeb and Watch Duty for perimeter maps and incident updates
  • Call 511 for road closure information

Do not return to evacuated areas until official all-clear notices are issued. Unauthorized access to evacuation zones endangers lives and impedes firefighting operations.