Wildfire close to Dusty causes some evacuations

The Central Ferry Fire near Dusty, Washington, has expanded to 5,500 acres with 0% containment, leading to Level 2 evacuations in nearby areas. Firefighters from Whitman County have been deployed to combat the blaze, which is consuming grass, wheat, and brush. State Route 127 has been reopened after being closed due to fire activity. Residents awoke to smoky conditions caused by a separate fire in Olympic National Park, which has burned over 7,000 acres. Meteorologist Steven Van Horn noted that winds from the west are bringing smoke into the Palouse region, but forecasts predict cooler temperatures and rain this weekend, which could assist firefighting efforts.

No injuries related to the Central Ferry Fire have been reported, and its cause remains under investigation. The situation highlights ongoing challenges in wildfire management across Washington state. Local authorities continue to monitor structures at risk as the fire remains uncontrolled.