BRUSH FIRE
07/21/14 16:31 (TONASKET – ) DNR/BLM UNITS ON SCENE 10+ ACRE FIRE BURNING IN TIMBER AND BRUSH. AIRTANKERS EN ROUTE. 8MI E OF TONASKET [WAS007]

All the smoke is coming from about 20 miles south of the US Border.

TONASKET, Wash

A wildfire east of Tonasket began growing Monday afternoon in Okanogan County.

The Bugg Road wildfire (Siwash) expanded quickly to 1,100 acres and began threatening homes this afternoon.

By 6:15 p.m., authorities issued a level 3 evacuation alert near Siwash Road and N. Oberg.

Dispatchers said at least seven helicopters were called to the scene to fight the fire.

The Department of Natural Resources originally reported the fire around 3:30 p.m. in the Siwash Creek area.

Other Washington state fires contributing smoke: Carleton south of Twisp. Two others R Road and Lone Mtn. 1 – all three south of Omak.

BC Wildfire Media contacts says air tankers and other resources from Penticton heading south to help.

People in Osoyoos Oliver and Keremeos asked not to clog the lines asking for information.

All fires in Okanagan “well managed” and not causing a problem. No new fires in the Kamloops Region allowing the assistance to others in need.

ODN will attempt to find out more.

Please continue to send photos and information (thanks)

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