Evacuations lifted for Williams Lake fire, 80% containment

AMBER, Wash. — All evacuation levels have been removed for those living around the Williams Lake Fire.

Those living in the area between Cheney Plaza, S. Grogen Road, Martin Road and Texas Ferry Road toward Williams Lake Road were originally under Level 3 evacuations- meaning LEAVE NOW. All those living in the area were advised to evacuate immediately.

Level 2 evacuations — meaning GET READY — were in place for people living along Wells Road and Cheney Spangle to the northeast and south beyond Cheney Plaza to Squaw Creek.

Fire officials confirmed Friday morning that the fire has burned less acreage than originally expected.

As of today, the fire is 80 percent contained.

Firefighters from across the state are helping with the firefight. Smoke has caused low visibility in the area and the fire is burning in difficult terrain.

Crews were able to begin demobilizing resources, like heavy equipment used to help put out the fire.

Highs wind caused the most significant issue for firefighters on Thursday, but that has since died down.

One fire engine and three structures have burned so far, but nobody has been injured. Fire crews continue to prioritize saving homes and other structures from burning.

Cheney High School is open for evacuees and the Cheney Rodeo Grounds are open for large animal evacuations. They do not have food but do have pens and water.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.