State officials have authorized emergency mobilization for the Tucannon Fire near Dayton, after growing to an estimated 6,000 acres within hours of sparking.
The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office says the fire was first reported around 4:15 p.m. on June 16th and is burning through grass and brush. The fast-moving fire is threatening homes, critical infrastructure, and livestock feeding areas.
At last reporting, around 9,500 acres have burned. Level 3 evacuations are put in effect, meaning residents in affected areas should leave immediately if they have not already done so.
State Fire Crews Step In to Support Local Crews
Conditions got worse on Tuesday, prompting Fire Chief Jeromy Phinney of Columbia County Fire District 3 to request additional assistance.
Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste authorized the mobilization of state firefighting resources at 6:45 p.m., allowing resources from across Washington to be deployed to the fire.
The State Emergency Operations Center at Camp Murray has also been activated at a Level 2 partial activation to help coordinate the response.
More Firefighters and Aircraft on the Way
Mobilization specialists have ordered five wildland strike teams, three hand crews, and air resources, hoping to help slow the fire’s growth and protect threatened communities.
Additional personnel from the State Fire Marshal’s Office are also assisting with resource coordination and deployment.
The goal of the state’s mobilization plan is to quickly bring in firefighters, equipment, and specialized resources when a wildfire grows beyond the capabilities of local agencies.
A Challenging Start to Washington’s 2026 Fire Season
With hot, dry conditions already impacting parts of Eastern Washington, the Tucannon Fire is one of many examples this week of how quickly wildfires can spread.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, while firefighters continue working to protect homes and infrastructure and gain control of a fire that is still growing.
Residents in the area are urged to follow evacuation orders and stay alert for changing conditions.
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