The U.S. Forest Service has assumed command of firefighting efforts on the rapidly spreading Red Bridge Fire, which has scorched approximately 60 acres about seven miles east of Cle Elum. Emergency officials issued Level 3 evacuation orders—signifying immediate evacuation—for residents in the most threatened areas.
The blaze, which ignited around 3:57 p.m. on June 9, is burning through timber, grasses, and nearby structures, endangering homes, power lines, and critical infrastructure. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed the fire’s growth by 8 p.m. and said preliminary evidence suggests it was human-caused.
Chris Keller, a local resident, described the speed of the fire’s spread as alarming. “It was just normal, then within an hour it was a disaster,” he said.
Fire behavior is being intensified by early-season dryness and gusty winds. KOMO News Chief Meteorologist Shannon O’Donnell noted that the Pacific Northwest has experienced unusually dry conditions following a winter and spring that delivered below-average rainfall and a snowpack only 75% of normal.
“Now, with the first major heatwave of 2025 and northwesterly winds gusting to over 30 mph through Cascade canyons, the fire has expanded rapidly,” O’Donnell said.
In response to the growing threat, Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste authorized the mobilization of additional firefighting resources at 7:45 p.m. Monday, following a request from Deputy Fire Chief Ron Adams of Kittitas County Fire District 7.
Kittitas County Sheriff’s deputies have evacuated all homes in the immediate danger zone. Level 3 evacuation orders are currently in place for residents north and east to the Teanaway River, with Level 2 warnings issued for surrounding areas. At least two homes have been confirmed destroyed. Deputies have contacted the homeowners and offered emergency assistance.
Ground crews and aerial units from the DNR are actively engaged in fire suppression, working alongside local teams. The State Emergency Operations Center at Camp Murray is activated at Level 3 to coordinate interagency support.
Mobilization specialists from the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office have dispatched three strike teams to aid containment, while others are working remotely to oversee logistics and resource allocation.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area and keep access routes clear for emergency response vehicles.
For ongoing updates, residents are encouraged to monitor the Kittitas County Live Active Fire Map and follow official guidance from local agencies.
