Single Publication

Big Horn Fire

2:30 PM, July 24, 2024 

Estimated size: 18,543 acres 

Containment: 1% 

Start Date/Time: 7/22/2024 at 1:07 PM 

Area of Origin: 7 miles SE of Bickleton, WA 

Cause: Undetermined 

Structures Damaged: 0

The Big Horn fire is burning near the town of Bickleton in Klickitat County, Washington. The fire started at approximately 1:07 PM on Monday July 22nd,2024, and was driven by windy and dry conditions. 

Overnight firefighting operations and favorable humidity levels led to slowing the spread of the fire on the west flank along the Pine Creek. The fire continues to move to the northwest corner and the west flank, towards the town of Bickleton. At approximately 12:30 PM this afternoon, the Klickitat County Sheriff’s Office released new information regarding evacuations. Some areas have been downgraded in evacuation level.  South of Six Prong and Six Prong Extension to Alderdale Road has been downgraded to level 2.

Alderdale Road to Klickitat County line is downgraded Level 1. To view the new evacuation maps, you can find them on the Klickitat County Emergency Management website and Facebook page. 

Today’s focus for firefighting operations has been to install dozer lines, increase of air operations and secure the west flank of the fire.  We continue to protect values at risk including lives, property and utility infrastructure.   

Road Closures: East Road is closed from the Town of Bickleton south to Hale Rd. 

Evacuation Levels: See attached Klickitat County Emergency Management Evacuation map. 

Weather and Fire Behavior: Sunny and dry conditions continue today with increase wind gusts. Calm winds will increase into gusty conditions by this afternoon.  

Smoke: While there are no current air quality alerts for Klickitat County, communities close to active wildfires could see air quality worsen as the fire and wind conditions change. For more information on smoke and air quality, please visit: Washington Smoke Information (wasmoke.blogspot.com) 

Shelter: There are no shelters currently. If you need shelter, please call Klickitat County Dispatch at 509-773-4545.  

Resources: Multiple overhead, strikes teams, aircraft and dozers are currently responding to the fire.   

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