243 Wildfire in Grant County grows to 15,000 acres, now 25% contained

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Update: The 243 fire in Grant County has now grown to 15,000 acres, but is now reported 25 percent contained Wednesday morning.

The Southeast Washington Interagency Incident Management Team says two minor injuries have been reported and one garage has been damaged, but no residences have.

Resources include four aircraft and 380 personnel. Level 3 evacuations remain in place for Smyrma.

Crews plan to aggressively attack the fire when possible, with the safety of public and firefighters a top priority, while considering the value of natural and commercial resources at risk.

With an incoming cold front, an emphasis continues to minimize acres burned.

Previous coverage:

GRANT COUNTY – A wildfire that ignited near the Wanapum Dam continues to burn 5,000 acres.

Firefighters say a significant night shift is in place to provide point protection.

There are about 400 personnel and two fire bosses, multiple helicopters, one air tanker, and air attack working to fight flames.

No homes have been reported as damaged.

Road closures remain in effect.

A Red Cross evacuation shelter is located at the Royal City Intermediate School. Food, water, and a shelter for anyone in an evacuation zone is available.

The Grant County Fairgrounds is open for sheltering livestock. They have bedding and water available but no feed.

Public lands near the area have been closed.