17 Oct 2022 | 09:09 AM UTC
US: Emergency crews responding to a wildfire in Clark County, Washington, as of early Oct. 17
Emergency crews continue responding to wildfire in Clark County, Washington, US, as of early Oct. 17; evacuations and road closures ongoing.
Event
Crews are continuing work to contain the Nakia Creek Fire burning in Clark County, Washington. The fire is burning around 14 km (9 miles) northwest of Camas, Washington. As of early Oct. 17, the fire was approximately 809 hectares (2,000 acres) in size and five percent contained. More than 97 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. Authorities estimate that the fire will be contained by Oct. 31; unseasonably warm and dry conditions as well as thick smoke are likely to hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Steep terrain is also restricting access to the fire location for emergency services. Additional wildfire growth is likely.
As of late Oct. 16, authorities have issued Level 3 'Go Now' evacuation orders for around 2,900 homes in areas surrounding the wildfire, as well as Level 2 'Be Set' orders for around 5,000 homes and Level 1 'Be Ready' orders for more than 28,500 homes. A map detailing the various evacuation zones can be found here. An emergency shelter for displaced residents is located at Camas Church of Nazarene, 2204 NE Birch St, Camas, WA 98607. Authorities could expand the mandatory evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions. All roads in the Level 3 warning area of the Larch Block of the Yacolt Burn State Forest are closed. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued air quality alerts due for parts of northern and western Washington and western Oregon due to smoke from numerous wildfires burning in the area.
Transport
The wildfire may cause some localized transport disruptions in parts of King and Snohomish counties. The status of nearby roads will likely change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuated communities due to fire activity and the requirements of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours may cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
