CLARKSTON, Wash. – Asotin County Firefighters were unable to save a house fire that burned down yesterday.
The house burned down in the midst of a large fire that was burning two structures and a section of dry grass. The 100 degree temperature and windy weather made the firefighters jobs extra difficult.
The fire was reported around 5 p.m. on Tuesday and, when fire teams arrived, it was being pushed by the wind from Elm Street to Chestnut Street.
Asotin County Fire District #1 Chief Noel Hardin said that the first few minutes of the fire were critical as crews were trying to stop its forward progression.
Getting help from every department in the valley was key in gaining control of the fire and keeping it from spreading to other homes, said Hardin.
Firefighters from Asotin County Fire District #1, City of Lewiston, City of Austin, City of Clarkston, Wheatland Fire District, Nez Perce County and Clearwater Paper all responded to the fire.
Asotin County Fire District #1 said that the blaze could be seen across the Lewis Clark Valley.
Firefighters were on the scene for about five hours, during which another fire broke out on 2nd Avenue in the Clarkston Heights.
Hardin said that he appreciated the teamwork from all the firefighters and medics who responded to the call for help.
There were no reported injuries and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
