Grant County, WA – A fast-moving wildfire in central Washington has prompted Level 3 “Go Now” evacuations, destroyed multiple structures, and forced the closure of State Route 243 as firefighters work to contain the rapidly spreading Railroad Fire.
According to the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, the wildfire—officially named the Railroad Fire—is burning near Beverly, Schwana, Mattawa, and Saddle Mountain. Authorities have ordered Level 3 evacuations for the entire towns of Beverly and Schwana, along with residents living along Lower Crab Creek Road for up to five miles east of SR 243.
Officials said structures have been lost, although the exact number will not be known until daylight. As of the latest update, authorities reported no confirmed injuries.
The fire has spread south and climbed Saddle Mountain, raising concerns that flames could move down the opposite side. Residents in Mattawa have been urged to remain alert as fire conditions continue to change.
According to the sheriff’s office, state fire mobilization has been approved, bringing additional firefighting resources from across Grant County and Washington state. The Grant County Emergency Operations Center in Ephrata has also been activated to coordinate the response.
An evacuation shelter has been established at Wahluke High School in Mattawa. Officials noted that evacuees north of the SR 243 barricades must travel through Othello to reach the shelter because SR 243 remains closed at Mattawa and Beverly Burke Road Southwest.
Authorities described the Railroad Fire as large, wind-driven, fast-moving, and dangerous, urging sightseers to stay away from the area, warning that stopping to watch or record the fire places lives at risk and interferes with emergency operations.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office as evacuation zones and fire conditions may change rapidly.
