Evacuation orders associated with the Three Queens Fire in Kittitas County, Washington, have been lifted as firefighters gained significant ground on the 9,575-acre blaze burning in the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has also reduced its area closure order, allowing some previously restricted zones to reopen.

The Three Queens Fire remains at 33% containment as of October 11 — the lowest of any significant active fire in Washington — but cooler temperatures and increased moisture from an advancing cold front have dramatically slowed fire spread, giving crews the opportunity to establish and strengthen containment lines in previously inaccessible terrain.

What the Closure Reduction Means for the Public

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest announced that portions of the Cle Elum Ranger District previously under closure order have been reopened to the public. However, fire managers caution that some areas remain closed and that conditions can change rapidly if fire behavior intensifies. The public is advised to:

  • Check the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest alerts page before visiting the area
  • Observe all posted closure signs and any remaining restrictions
  • Avoid driving through active or residual smoke areas
  • Report any new smoke or fire activity to 911

Remaining Active Evacuations in Washington

While the Three Queens orders have been lifted, other fires in Washington may still carry evacuation warnings or notices in specific areas. Residents and visitors throughout Chelan, Okanogan, Whatcom, and Kittitas counties are urged to:

  • Register with their county’s emergency alert system if they have not already done so
  • Know their evacuation zone and the route they will take if ordered to leave
  • Prepare a go-bag with medications, documents, water, and supplies for at least 72 hours
  • Follow Kittitas County Emergency Management on social media for real-time updates

Looking Ahead

The Three Queens Fire is expected to move toward full containment over the coming week as favorable weather continues. Forest officials have indicated that full reopening of all restricted areas will follow once fire personnel have assessed road conditions and safety. Some roads in the area sustained damage from both the fire itself and from suppression equipment, and certain routes may remain closed for safety repairs beyond the fire closure period.

Residents who were evacuated and have questions about returning to their properties should contact the Kittitas County Office of Emergency Management for guidance on re-entry procedures and any property access restrictions that may still be in effect.