Fire chars areas of Columbia National Wildlife Refuge

UPPER GOOSE LAKE — A large wildfire near Upper Goose Lake prompted a Level 3 evacuation notice over the weekend. Initial estimates put the size of the fire at about 800 acres, according to the sheriff’s office.

Firefighters responded to the fire, which was located in the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge, Sunday evening. High winds caused the fire to grow rapidly and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office issued a Level 3 evacuation notice for anyone in the area. A Level 3 notice means people are in immediate danger and need to leave the area as soon as possible.

The notice was issued for people in the recreation area and there were no homes at risk nor risk to anyone outside the recreation area. The location of the fire presented problems to responding firefighters, as the area is home to rugged cliffs, canyons, lakes and sagebrush grasslands.

Crews were able to contain the blaze about 9 p.m. and the evacuation notice was canceled. The cause of the fire is under investigation. There were no reported injuries or structures destroyed.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.