Pearl Hill Fire grows to nearly 6,000 acres near Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT — The Pearl Hill Fire has grown to approximately 6,000 acres after wind-driven flames spread rapidly across grass, brush and agricultural land southeast of Bridgeport over the weekend.

The fire, which started shortly after 2 p.m. July 25 near Sand Hill Road, was first reported burning in winter wheat before strong winds pushed it north and northeast through critically dry vegetation. Within hours, it had grown from a few acres to more than 1,000 acres, prompting Level 2 evacuation notices for residents north of Road 28 NE, including the Lone Pine Lake, Judson Lake, Dudley Lake and Brandt's Landing areas.

By Sunday evening, the Northeast Washington Incident Management Team 2 had assumed command of the fire, which officials estimated at about 6,000 acres with no containment. The fire has burned a long, narrow footprint roughly 10 miles long and about a mile wide. No civilian or firefighter injuries have been reported.

Fire managers said an aggressive initial attack included more than two dozen engines, tactical water tenders, contract dozers and aircraft, including two Super Scoopers and multiple helicopters. Air operations continued until smoke and reduced visibility made flying unsafe. Additional firefighting resources mobilized through the state arrived Sunday to reinforce local, state and federal crews.

Firefighters made significant progress Sunday as relatively mild weather allowed crews to strengthen containment lines and assess the fire's perimeter. A flare-up in timber on the east side of the fire Sunday evening was cooled by helicopter, allowing firefighters to safely continue suppression efforts.

On Monday, crews are working directly along the fire's edge where terrain allows, extinguishing hotspots, strengthening containment lines and securing structures. Firefighters are also cold trailing, a process of feeling the ground and vegetation for hidden heat to ensure no hot spots remain near the fire's perimeter. Access remains limited in steep terrain along the Columbia River, though aircraft remain available if fire activity increases.

Weather conditions are expected to remain favorable through Monday, giving firefighters an opportunity to reinforce containment lines before stronger winds forecast for Tuesday could increase fire activity.

Level 2 evacuations remain in effect for areas near the fire. Residents are encouraged to stay prepared to leave if conditions change, follow directions from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office and avoid the fire area so emergency crews can work safely.

To sign up for emergency alerts or view current evacuation information, visit www.douglascountywa.gov/231/Emergency-Management.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media