Highway 97 reopens as firefighting efforts continue on Blewett Pass

BLEWETT PASS—Highway 97 reopened with single-lane pilot car-controlled traffic from mileposts 163 to 164 on Blewett Pass, where fire activity and emergency response vehicles are present, according to an update from the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

According to the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), 120 personnel were assigned to the 15-acre fire as of 10 a.m. on Sept. 5. 

The Blewett Fire started in the afternoon of Sept. 4. USFS reported that initial firefighting efforts began with four fire engines, two 20-person crews, two bulldozers, two helicopters, and two large air tankers. Efforts were able to slow the fire's progression to an estimated 15 acres by the evening of Sept. 4. The pass remained closed overnight as fire personnel used the road for equipment placement and suppression actions.

The Blewett Fire was determined to be human-caused due to its proximity to a road and the absence of recent lightning in the vicinity. The exact cause is still unknown. However, USFS said common causes of a roadside fire could be dragging chains, a flat tire, faulty vehicle equipment, a cigarette, or matches.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media