UPDATE: August 18 at 5:30 p.m.
Both directions of Interstate 90 between milepost 70 near Easton and milepost 106 near Ellensburg have reopened, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation.
This comes after poor visibility from nearby fires forced the freeway to close.
UPDATE: August 18 at 5:05 p.m.
Initial reports from Kittitas Fire District #7 suggest that a cargo trailer being pulled on a disintegrated tire and rim is likely the source of the fires. However, this information has not been verified or confirmed yet.
Authorities are investigating the situation to determine the exact cause of the fires. The heavy smoke has raised concerns for commuters and residents in the area.
CLE ELUM, Wash. – Several brush fires have sparked along Interstate 90 near Cle Elum.
Kittitas County Fire District 7 and other local crews are actively working to control the fires.
The fires are causing smoke that is impacting visibility for those on the road.
To assist firefighting efforts, air support including planes scooping water is being deployed.
The situation has led to road closures, with I-90 shut down in both directions.
Eastbound traffic is halted at milepost 70 near Easton, while westbound traffic is stopped at milepost 106 near Ellensburg.
There is currently no estimated time for the roadway to reopen.
ORIGINAL COVERAGE: August 18 at 4:18 p.m.
