Wildfire destroys Wenatchee homes, prompts evacuations

A fast-moving wildfire in Chelan County consumed between six and 11 homes Sunday night on the north side of Wenatchee, prompting hurried evacuations.

The Sleepy Hollow fire started about 2:30 p.m. in 108-degree heat near Cashmere and spread to more than 1,800 acres, initially threatening 60 to 70 homes and other structures and forcing scores to flee their homes, according to fire officials and media reports.

Firefighters also battled a large commercial fire in north Wenatchee near fruit-packing plants. They were concerned about a fertilizer tank and ammonia tanks getting caught in the blaze, the Wenatchee World reported.

The American Red Cross opened an emergency shelter in a church but quickly had to move it to Eastmont High School due to shifting winds and smoke.

Helicopters dumped water on the flames and rural fire districts sent in engines and crews. State fire assistance was mobilized Sunday evening to help gain control of the blaze.