Evacuation levels lowered for Hatch Grade Fire near Touchet
By Dan Thesman on Thursday, October 1st, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA COUNTY — Emergency officials reduced all high-level evacuation notices for the Hatch Grade Fire near Touchet to a Level 1 “Be Ready” status on Thursday afternoon.
The downgrade, effective as of 4 p.m., lowers the previous Level 2 “Be Set” and Level 3 “Go Now” orders, allowing displaced residents to return to their homes, according to the Walla Walla County Emergency Management Department.
Local authorities advised returning residents to remain cautious, warning that emergency response crews and equipment are still active in the area and roadway hazards, including debris, may be present.
“Citizens are requested not to call 911 unless a serious situation or life-threatening emergency exists,” the department said in a news release.
Map courtesy Walla Walla County Emergency Management
