SEATTLE, Wash., Oct. 1, 2026 — Autumn has arrived in Washington, but wildfire season isn’t over.

In the span of just a few days, American Red Cross disaster workers have responded to wildfires in two Eastern Washington communities, opening evacuation centers to provide safe places for residents as fires threatened homes and prompted evacuations.

On Tuesday, Sept. 29, the Hatch Grade Fire broke out near Touchet in Walla Walla County. As evacuation orders expanded, the American Red Cross opened an evacuation center at Touchet High School for people affected by the fire. The response came only days after Red Cross teams opened evacuation centers in response to the Second Street Fire in Benton County.

The two responses serve as an important reminder that wildfire danger can continue well into the fall.

“The autumn season may be here, but wildfire season isn’t done just yet. Conditions east of the Cascades remain dry and new wildfires continue to threaten homes and businesses,” said Ted Buehner, meteorologist and Red Cross volunteer. Buehner offers an additional warning that, “The fall season also means the weather can be windy at times, helping fan the flames.”

“Continue to avoid generating any fire starts, such as tossing burning materials out of vehicles, and follow burn bans in your area. Also monitor local authorities in case a wildfire breaks out and potential evacuations are needed,” Buehner says.

Washington’s statewide prohibition on most outdoor and agricultural burning was in effect through Sept. 30. However, the changing calendar does not eliminate wildfire risk or necessarily mean all burning restrictions have ended. State officials continue to urge residents to check current state and local restrictions before burning outdoors.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

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