ASOTIN COUNTY – The Washington State Patrol has authorized state fire assistance to support local efforts battling the Evans Road Fire, which ignited Wednesday afternoon near Clarkston in Asotin County.

The fire, which began around 12:30 p.m. on July 9, has already scorched approximately 300 acres of grass and brush and continues to grow. The blaze threatens electric and gas infrastructure, multiple structures, and the Port of Clarkston.

In response to the escalating situation, Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste approved the mobilization of state firefighting resources at 2:45 p.m. following a request from Asotin County Fire District 1 Chief Noel Hardin.

Level 1 and Level 2 evacuation notices are currently in effect for areas near the fire. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.

The State Emergency Operations Center at Camp Murray has been activated to Level 2 (partial activation) to coordinate state-level assistance. Three hand crews have been deployed, and personnel from the State Fire Marshal’s Office are either en route or assisting remotely to coordinate resource dispatches.

Mobilization efforts are being managed through the State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan, which is designed to provide quick and organized deployment of fire service personnel and equipment from across the state when local resources are overwhelmed.

For more information about the mobilization plan, visit: www.wsp.wa.gov/all-risk-mobilization.