Thurston County downgrades wildfire evacuation level near Rainier

Thurston County officials downgraded evacuation orders for residents near Rainier, after a wildfire prompted evacuations earlier this week.  

 On Wednesday, Aug. 13, a brush fire broke out in the area, leading to a Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation for Rainier Road between 138th Avenue SE and Military Road SE.  

Surrounding areas in Rainier Road E to Rainier Acres Road and 128th Avenue S to Finian Road were placed under a Level 1 “Be Ready” evacuation. By the evening, the Level 3 zone was reduced to Level 2 “Get Set,” and the Level 1 advisory remained in place.  

The emergency shelter at Tenino High School, which had been opened for evacuees, was closed at 9 p.m.  

Firefighting crews remained overnight to work on containing the blaze, which burned an estimated 26 acres.  

 Evacuation level one means residents should remain prepared and alert but no longer need to leave their homes. Officials said the fire is largely contained, and the immediate threat has passed.