Sumner Grade Fire: 65% Contained, 494 Acres Burned

BONNEY LAKE, WA—Cooler air and humidity coupled with the hard work of fire crews Sunday resulted in 65 percent containment of the Sumner Grade Fire, according to East Pierce Fire. So far, nearly 500 acres have burned.

Fire crews said in total two homes, six outbuildings and one car have been lost in the Sumner Grade Fire, which started the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 8.

While SR 410 between Sumner/Bonney Lake remains closed due to the fire; however, WSDOT officials said they are working towards reopening it.

"We don't have a firm timeline, but we'll keep you informed," they said.

Before the highway can re-open, officials said Washington State Department of Transportation crews need to replace long sections of scorched guardrail. In addition, they are inspecting the hillside for large rocks or other debris that could fall on to the highway. SR 410 is being evaluated constantly and we are working hard to get it open for normal use.

An updated phased re-entry evacuation plan went into effect Sunday at 6 p.m. All areas have been downgraded to Level 1.

Myers Road remains closed to local access only. “Local Access” means if you live in this area you may drive into the area to and from your home, firefighters explained. Drivers are asked to be mindful of fire department vehicles and hoses in the area as units handle fire-related issues. Drivers are asked to avoid driving over fire hoses in the roadway!

To assist evacuees, donations can be sent to the Red Cross. Please go to https://www.redcross.org/donate/donation.html/ and use the drop down menu to select “Your Local Red Cross." Please note: Neither the Red Cross nor fire fighters are accepting clothing, bedding, food or other physical items due to limited resources to manage them and COVID-19 protocols.