Lake Chelan, Washington wildfire prompts evacuations

The Transfer Fire ignited on July 12, 2026 near the Lake Chelan Health Hospital in Washington’s Chelan County. Authorities issued Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation orders for Columbia View Road and Atkins Heights Lane and Level 2 “Get Ready” orders for surrounding areas. Helicopters were deployed to help contain the blaze, which threatened a nearby Walmart and local traffic routes.

A second incident, referred to as the Chelan Hills Fire or “Number 2 Canyon” fire, triggered additional emergency alarms and fresh evacuations across the town. The fire ultimately burned more than 9,850 acres and was reported as fully contained, though some homes were lost while others were saved. Residents faced rapid warning updates, road closures, and potential respiratory impacts from smoke.

Both fires underscore the strain on first‑responders and the heightened risk to public safety during Washington’s extreme wildfire season.