Wildfires burn near Wenatchee

WENATCHEE, Wash. — Two wildfires raged Tuesday in hills southeast of Wenatchee, leading fire officials to alert some residents to be ready to go at a moment's notice.

The fires, likely started by lightning strikes on Monday, were fanned by wind and found easy fuel in grasses that grew tall in the cool, moist spring.

Fire information officer Holly Krake called it a "fine fuels explosion."

>> Download the KIRO 7 News app for major developments on the wildfire

On Tuesday, fire officials estimated the Spartan Fire in Chelan County had burned 4,500 acres.

Eighty structures were threatened, and officials set up roadblocks, allowing only residents beyond them.

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Those residents were under what's called a Level 2 evacuation, meaning they must be ready to leave immediately if directed by sheriff's deputies.

That included Georgia Ridge, who called the situation "a little scary."

She gathered her valuables and medications in her car, ready to go.

Across the Columbia River in Douglas County, the Sutherland Canyon Fire had burned about 3,000 acres and threatened 24 structures.

Additional firefighting resources were arriving from around the state.

Here is exactly what wildfire alerts mean: 

• Level 1 = alert. Residents should be aware of the danger that exists, and monitor local media outlets for information. Residents with special needs, or those with pets or livestock, should take note and make preparations for relocating family members, pets, and livestock.
• Level 2 = significant risk to your area, and residents should voluntarily relocate outside of the area, or, be ready to leave at a moment's notice.
• Level 3 = you should leave immediately

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