Highway 97 Reopens as Firefighting Efforts Continue on Blewett Pass

Highway 97 Reopens After Wildfire Closure

Highway 97, a major route connecting central and eastern Washington, has reopened to traffic after being closed for several days due to a wildfire on Blewett Pass. The fire, which started on August 19th, burned approximately 1,500 acres and forced the evacuation of several nearby communities.

Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, and the reopening of Highway 97 is a significant step in the recovery process. However, the fire is still not fully under control, and crews continue to work to extinguish remaining embers and hotspots.

Firefighting Efforts Continue on Blewett Pass

Crews from multiple agencies are still battling the wildfire on Blewett Pass. The fire is burning in steep and rugged terrain, making it difficult to access and extinguish.

Firefighters are using a variety of tactics to combat the blaze, including water drops from aircraft, bulldozers to clear fire lines, and hand crews to dig trenches and remove brush.

The containment of the fire is expected to take several more days, but progress is being made. Firefighters are optimistic that they will be able to fully extinguish the blaze and reopen Highway 97 to full capacity soon.

Impact of the Fire on the Community

The wildfire on Blewett Pass has had a significant impact on the surrounding communities. Several communities were evacuated, and residents were forced to leave their homes and businesses behind.

The fire has also caused damage to infrastructure, including power lines and roads. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, but it is expected to be significant.

The American Red Cross and other organizations are providing assistance to those affected by the fire. Shelters have been set up for evacuees, and donations are being collected to help those who have lost their homes or businesses.