Crews battle wildfire in 106 degree conditions

KITTITAS COUNTY, Wash. — Crews from across Kittitas County worked in 106 degree temperatures to contain a wildfire east of the city of Kittitas.

Officials with the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office said the fire started in the area of Stardust Lane at the top of Clerf Hill.

Dozens of people were forced to evacuate but later were allowed to return to their homes.

No residents suffered injuries; however, two firefighters were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The fire destroyed a home in the 2900 block of Clerf Road along with several outbuildings along Stingley Road, authorities said.

The Red Cross was called to assist, helping evacuees and those experiencing extended power outages. They opened an emergency shelter.

Officials said, “Both days of this weekend were marked by wildfires that endangered lives and property, and the heat wave is just getting started. PLEASE exercise extraordinary caution in the days ahead!”

©2021 Cox Media Group