Image
© KING 5 NewsSleepy Hollow fire
At least a thousand people have fled their homes as a fast-growing wildfire burns out of control in central Washington.

All of north Wenatchee from Maple Street north to the river was evacuated Sunday night. The Chelan County Sheriff's Office says 12 homes have been destroyed.

Hundreds of firefighters from across Washington are on the scene and more are headed there.

Sunday's temperatures of at least 108 degrees, tinder dry brush and strong winds helped fuel the fire. Monday morning brought a brief rainshower which helped firefighters.

The fire was at least 2.6 square miles at last report. An update on the size is expected at 9 a.m.
Image
© king5.com

Officials say that there have been no reports of serious injuries.

Fire also broke out in a cardboard recycling facility.

Mandatory Level 3 evacuations are in place for the following areas:

All of Broadview Development

Sunrise Circle

Sleepy Hollow Heights Rd. west to Richared Rd on Sleepy Hollow Road, including Sleepy Hollow Heights Subdivision

Hawley from the Avenue to Miller, Miller to Maple

Walla Walla from Miller to just north of 9th

River Park from Walla Walla

Level 2 evacuations, which means residents should be prepared to leave at a moment's notice, are in effect from Maiden Lane to Maple and from Western Avenue to Wenatchee Avenue.

A Red Cross shelter was opened at Eastmont High with about 200 people staying there.

The Manson Volunteer Fire Department reported that Chelan County Fair Grounds staff was making arrangements for residents in the affected area to bring livestock and other large animals to that location to shelter.

The area is under a Red Flag Warning for gusty winds, low humidity, and dry lighting. KING 5 Meteorologist Rich Marriott says the forecast for Eastern Washington calls for mid 90s to low 100s with morning thundershowers. Winds will be 10-20 mph with higher gusts.