Weather A Concern For Crews Battling Washington Fire

10 p.m. - The Washington Fire is now 37 percent contained.

A red flag warning in the area due to dry lightning, thunderstorms and gusty winds continues to be a concern. 

11:30 a.m. - Crews continue to construct and secure firelines on the eastern perimeter of the Washington Fire Saturday, as weather forecasters call for increased chances of gusty winds, dry lightning and thunderstorms.

The fire, which started June 19 after a lightning strike, has burned 17,622 acres and is 29 percent contained. It is three miles south of Markleeville.

Officials have lifted the evacuation advisory for the town of Markleeville and the Grover Springs Hot Springs Campground, according to a U.S. Forest Service incident update. The public is still encouraged to use caution while driving in those areas.

Highways 4 and 89 remain closed at the Carson River Resort approximately 2 miles east of Markleeville and at the junction of State Highway 395 near Topaz Lake. Area closures have been issued for the fire area, information may be found at http://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/htnf/alerts-notices and http://www.blm.gov/nv/st/en/fo/carson_city_field.html.

The Pacific Crest trail has not been impacted by the Washington Fire and is currently open in all directions.

Estimated cost of fighting the fire to date is $6.4 million.

Fire Facts:

• Fire Start Date: June 19, 2015
• Location: 3 miles south of Markleeville, California.
• Size: 17,622 acres
• Percent Contained: 29%
• Cause: Lightning
• Incident Resources: 1173 personnel, including 34 hand crews, 53 engines, 12 water tenders and 11 helicopters.
• Lost Time Injuries: 0
• Estimated Cost to Date: $ 6,400,000

- CapRadio.org Staff