Firefighters are making progress in containing the Wildcat Fire burning in eastern Yakima County but are focusing mostly on protecting structures in the area. The Wildcat Fire started about 30 miles west of Naches in the Bumping Lake area on August 25. Officials said a lightning strike caused the fire, which is burning in very heavy and thick timber. Level Two ‘Get Set” evacuation notices were issued for the area around Bumping River Road and Goose Prairie in the evening of September 3 and remain in place.
Several roads and campgrounds in the area were closed for public safety and to give firefighters plenty of space to work. On September 10, firefighting officials said they had attained 8% containment on the Wildcat Fire. However, firefighters also said their efforts have been focused on protecting homes, buildings and critical infrastructure near Bumping Lake, State Route 410 and the community of Goose Prairie. Firefighters said they would focus on work along the SR 410 corridor and on the south side of the fire.
The Wildcat Fire is currently burning about 7,893 acres of woodland area. Firefighters said fire growth has been relatively slow over the last few days, but crews are keeping an eye out for new fire starts due to frequent lightning storms. Firefighters said cooler temperatures and light precipitation have moderated the fire’s behavior.
