Winthrop Issued Full Evacuation Order as Fast-Moving Hamilton Fire Reaches 300 Acres, Evacuation Levels Downgraded by Nightfall

Deputy State Fire Marshal Amy Thornton described the blaze as a rapidly spreading threat to the surrounding community. Fire information officer Thomas Kyle-Milward attributed the fast spread directly to weather conditions. “Definitely a wind-driven fire and that’s been one of the reasons for the rapid spread,” Kyle-Milward said. “The fire is currently burning fine, flashy fuels which are very susceptible to the wind.”

A significant air response was deployed early in the incident, including two helicopters, three single-engine air tankers, and two large air tankers. State Route 20 near Winthrop was shut down for approximately three hours before reopening around 2 p.m., though officials cautioned that further closures were possible given forecast wind conditions.

The Silverline Lakeside Resort told anyone with reservations not to come to the property. “We have no power or water and the fire is fast moving. Our number one priority is to make sure everyone is safe,” the resort said in a statement.

Governor Bob Ferguson issued a brief statement Sunday afternoon. “Thinking of the people in Winthrop, and appreciate the work of first responders. Please follow evacuation directions and be safe,” Ferguson said.

By Sunday evening, conditions had improved enough for officials to downgrade evacuation levels. Level 3 areas were reduced to Level 2 and Level 2 areas were reduced to Level 1. Power was restored to many residents overnight. The fire remained at zero percent containment as of Sunday night, though forward progression had slowed or stopped. “We are hoping to put some good containment on the map tomorrow morning,” Kyle-Milward said.