Winthrop, Washington wildfire forces town evacuation

A fast‑moving wildfire erupted near Winthrop, Washington on the morning of June 28, 2026, burning roughly 50 acres of dry grass and sagebrush. Okanogan County Emergency Management issued Level 3 “Leave Now” evacuation orders for key streets and roads in the town, while the rest of Winthrop and surrounding areas received Level 2 “Be Ready” notices. Residents were instructed to evacuate toward the nearby town of Twisp, where an evacuation center was set up at the Methow Valley Community Center.

The Washington State Patrol and local law‑enforcement agencies urged immediate compliance. State Route 20 was temporarily closed near Winthrop as fire crews worked to contain the blaze. No structures were reported damaged and no injuries were recorded. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Authorities continue to monitor smoke conditions and advise the public to stay informed through official channels.