Update: Balsamroot fire evacuation levels lowered in Wenatchee Foothills

WENATCHEE- Following Fourth of July celebrations, a wildfire broke out within the Horselake region of Wenatchee’s northern foothills. Referred to initially as the Horselake Fire, officials have now named it the Balsamroot Fire.

The fire started early in the morning, around 3 a.m., and continued to spread throughout the dried foothills, covering over 100 acres by 10 a.m. and prompting level 3 (get out now) evacuation notices in the Horselake Road area, including Westview Place, Westwick Road, Kookaburra Run, West Morland Drive, and the Maiden Lane area. Overall, about 150 structures stood within the hazardous level 3 evacuation zone. 

To help local firefighters contain the rapidly spreading fire, the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan mobilized state fire assistance at 5:30 a.m., bolstering the capabilities of those fighting on the ground.

By 11:30 a.m. all level 3 evacuation notices have been lowered to level 1 (stay alert), urging residents to remain aware and ready to respond to the remaining fire danger in the area. Though reaching a size of 250 acres, according to Fire Chief Brian Brett, the fire has been 30% contained. 

As investigations into the cause and culprit of the fire continue, Chief Brett has confirmed that the wildfire was most likely started by illegal fireworks. So far, no lives or structures have been reported lost in the fire. 

Over the course of the Fourth of July evening and the following morning, Wenatchee Valley Fire Department has already responded to over a dozen calls relating to fireworks, helping to contain each one. 

For active information on the status of local wildfires, visit co.chelan.wa.us/emergency-management and access their live Emergency Incidents Map.

Will Nilles: (509) 731-3211 or will@ward.media