Swauk Creek Fire causes Highway 97 delays

BLEWETT PASS —- Travelers should expect ongoing delays and closures along Highway 97 as firefighters respond to the Swauk Creek Fire, located about 12 miles east of Cle Elum.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, the Swauk Creek Fire was started by a vehicle accident around 12:15 a.m. on Sunday morning, reaching about 30 acres by the afternoon.

Throughout the day, crews and equipment from multiple cooperating agencies were assisted by several helicopters and two super scooper planes dropping water on the fire. While firefighters are engaged in suppression activities directly on the fire's edge, the direct technique is challenged by rough terrain and windy conditions.

The highway was fully closed between mileposts 150-178 over Sunday. As of Monday morning, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) opened the highway with flagger-controlled traffic and delays on US-97 between milepost 151 and 152, south of the Blewett Pass summit. Up to date travel information can be found on WSDOT’s real-time travel map.

The fire information line is shared with Three Queens Fire information: 1-509-664-9200. The line is open between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m.

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