2012 Washington state wildfires
| 2012 Washington wildfires | |
|---|---|
Satellite image of fires on September 19
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| Statistics | |
| Total fires | 1,342 |
| Total area | 259,526 acres (1,050 km2) |
| Season | |
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← 2011
2013 →
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The 2012 Washington wildfires were a series of 1,342 wildfires that burned 259,526 acres (1,050 km2) over the course of 2012. The fires primarily occurred in the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests during September and October 2012. A severe lightning storm on September 8 caused hundreds of fires across the east side of Cascade Range. Smoke caused hazardous air quality conditions in the cities of Ellensburg and Wenatchee, and was noticeable in Seattle. The cost of fighting the largest four fires was estimated to be $67.5 million.
The first major wildfire in Washington during the 2012 season started on August 13 east of Cle Elum between Interstate 90 and U.S. Route 97 in Kittitas County. The fire was fully contained on August 28 after burning 23,500 acres (36.7 sq mi; 95.1 km2) acres and destroying 61 homes. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but is suspected to be construction work.
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