State resources mobilized as 9,500-acre Tucannon Fire burns uncontained in Columbia County

DAYTON, Washington — A wind-driven wildfire, named the Tucannon Fire, has scorched an estimated 9,500 acres in Columbia County, near Dayton, drawing a statewide response Tuesday afternoon.

The fire broke out around 3:05 p.m. near the intersection of Highway 12 and Tucannon Road. Driven by strong winds, the blaze spread quickly before local crews, mutual aid departments, and air resources managed to halt its forward progression.

Columbia County Fire District No. 3 Chief Jeromy Phinney secured authorization for the Washington Fire Service Mobilization Plan, prompting state resources to reinforce local departments. The Southeast Washington Interagency Incident Management Team 3, Team 2, has assumed command.

As of Wednesday morning, there is no containment. No injuries have been reported, and no primary structures have been destroyed, though a few outbuildings sustained damage. Officials confirmed there are currently no evacuation orders or road closures in place.

Five strike teams, totaling approximately 180 personnel, 20 engines, five water tenders, and one bulldozer, are working to construct and strengthen containment lines. Three additional hand crews have been ordered.

The public is advised to avoid the area of the fire so crews can work safely.

Weather conditions on Wednesday are expected to bring temperatures in the mid-80s with southwest winds between 10 and 20 miles per hour. Similar conditions are forecast for Thursday.

While air quality in the region remains generally good, officials noted haze and smoke are possible near the fire perimeter. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Photo courtesy Belinda Larsen

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Elkhorn Media Group