TERRACE HEIGHTS, Wash. — Residents of Terrace Heights in Yakima County are warned to be ready to evacuate due to a wildfire in the area.
A Level 3 evacuation notice was issued for some residents by Yakima Valley Emergency Management around 11 a.m. on Friday. That was downgraded to a Level 2 by 8 p.m.
The cause of the fire is unknown.
What is being called the Key Road Fire started around 9:30 a.m. on June 21. The fire was estimated to be 60 acres by the afternoon, but was contained to about 25 acres by 6 p.m. It is burning in timber and high-growth marsh grasses.
State fire assistance has been mobilized to support local firefighters working to contain the fire.
Here are the wildfire evacuation levels and what they mean from the U.S. Forest Service:
Level 1: Evacuation or protection alert
A wildfire threat is in your area. It would be wise to consider planning and/or packing, in the event an evacuation becomes necessary.
Level 2: Evacuation warning or notice
High probability of a need to evacuate.
You should prepare now by packing the necessary items and preparing your family, pets, and vehicle for potential departure. Remember the six-P’s:
- Plan for the persons in your family (including a meeting place)
- Personal items: Toiletries, food and water for two to three days and special personal possessions
- Prescriptions: Have your full, current supply of prescriptions packed
- Photographs (and other mementos) that cannot be replaced
- Pets: Have a plan in place and pets secured so frightened pets don’t escape fenced yards or kennels
- Papers: Pack all important papers, including reference phone numbers, account numbers, etc.
Now is the time to move persons with mobility or medical issues. If you have livestock or large animals, move them to a safe place now. Use common sense and evacuate at any time you feel uncomfortable or see active fire behavior.
Level 3: Evacuation request or order
Occupants of the affected area are asked to leave within a specified time period, by pre-designated routes. Perimeter roadblocks are typically established.
At this stage:
- You should take your family, pets, and necessary items including medications and important papers and evacuate now
- Check in with your local Red Cross shelter (even if you don’t intend to stay there) and tell them and let them know where you will be in case your family is looking for you
- Drive with your lights on, safely and slowly remaining aware of your surroundings as you leave
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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