Wildfire Prompts I-90 Closure Near Cle Elum

A fast-moving wildfire erupted near Cle Elum, Washington, on Monday afternoon, creating a scene of chaos and danger as it leaped across both sides of Interstate 90. The blaze, fueled by dry vegetation and trees, forced the Washington State Department of Transportation to implement a full closure of the critical east-west highway, stranding travelers and prompting a massive multi-agency fire response. The I-90 closure has created a significant disruption to regional transportation and commerce, with no immediate timeline for reopening.

What Caused the I-90 Closure Near Cle Elum?

The I-90 closure was initiated around 4 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025, as reported by KIMA Action News. The fire is burning across a significant stretch of the highway, specifically between mileposts 72 and 84. Authorities from the Cle Elum Volunteer Fire Department confirmed the severity of the situation, stating, “Multiple brush fires are currently burning along I-90 between mileposts 84 and 72. Fire crews from all area departments are actively working to contain the fires.”

Initial reports from officials point to a potential human cause. Jeff Myers, Fire Commissioner for Cle Elum, indicated that a cargo trailer being pulled on a disintegrated tire and rim was the likely source of the multiple ignition points along the highway. However, he was careful to note that this cause had not yet been officially verified as of the latest updates. The incident underscores the extreme fire danger present in the region during the late summer months, where a single spark can lead to a rapidly spreading catastrophe.

How Are Firefighters Battling the Blaze?

A coordinated effort involving ground crews and aerial support is underway to gain control of the situation. Kittitas County Fire District 7 provided a detailed update on their efforts, noting, “At this time multiple fires along EB I90 MP 77 to MP 84. Multiple agencies along I90 fighting fires along with dozer and air support.” Their report also offered a sliver of progress, confirming that one section of the fire, from milepost 74 to 78 between the freeway and railroad tracks, had been contained.

Despite the intense firefighting activity, no formal evacuation orders have been issued for surrounding communities, including the nearby city of Roslyn, though residents have reported heavy smoke. The primary focus remains on containing the fire’s spread and protecting infrastructure, with the reopening of I-90 secondary to public safety concerns.

What is the Impact on Travel and Local Residents?

The indefinite I-90 closure has had an immediate and severe impact on traffic, creating massive backups on one of the state’s most vital transportation corridors. Frustrated drivers took to social media to describe the gridlock. One individual reported on Facebook, “WADOT fail for what is one of the worst backups I have seen in a very long time! A 4ish mile back up on I-90 west bound at the Vantage Bridge.”

Commissioner Myers acknowledged the widespread disruption, warning residents across the entire area to “prepare for associated impacts from the interstate closure.” The closure effectively severs a main artery for cross-state travel, affecting commuters, commercial trucking, and tourists alike. Travelers are strongly advised to seek alternate routes and monitor official channels like the Washington State Department of Transportation for real-time updates on the I-90 closure and fire status.

The rapidly evolving Cle Elum wildfire and subsequent I-90 closure serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to climate-driven disasters. While fire crews battle the flames with bulldozers and aircraft, thousands remain stranded, highlighting the delicate balance between human activity and the powerful forces of nature in the American West. For the latest official information, residents and travelers should monitor local fire department social media pages and state transportation alerts.

Must Know

Q: Is I-90 open now?
A: As of the latest reports from Monday evening, I-90 remains fully closed in both directions between milepost 70 near Easton and milepost 106 near Ellensburg due to the active wildfire. There is no estimated time for reopening.

Q: Are there evacuations because of the Cle Elum fire?
A: According to Kittitas County Fire District 7, no evacuation orders have been issued at this time. However, the situation is dynamic, and residents should stay alert for updates from official emergency management sources.

Q: What started the fire near I-90?
A: The suspected cause, though not yet officially confirmed, is a cargo trailer being pulled on a disintegrated tire and rim, which may have sparked multiple fires along the highway.

Q: How big is the Cle Elum wildfire?
A: The fire is impacting a large area, with multiple fires reported along a 12-mile stretch of I-90 between mileposts 72 and 84. An exact acreage has not been provided by officials yet.

Q: What are the alternate routes while I-90 is closed?
A: Travelers should expect significant delays and are advised to avoid the area entirely. For long-distance travel, US Highway 2 or State Route 14 may serve as alternatives, though they will likely experience increased traffic and are much longer routes. Always check WSDOT conditions before traveling.