Sumner Grade Fire: Evacuations Downgraded, Closures Remain

BONNEY LAKE, WA — After a long week of evacuations, closures and massive power outages, the Sumner Grade Fire is finally coming under control.

As of the latest update from firefighters Monday afternoon, the fire has burned 494 acres and is now 85 percent contained.

Firefighters say that, as the fire comes under control, they're getting a better read on how much damaged it caused. Their latest scan of the burn zone found that it has burned two homes (down from earlier reports that four homes had been destroyed), six outbuildings, and one car.

Beyond helping firefighters, increased containment is also good news for homeowners. Sunday afternoon, officials announced that all the remaining evacuation areas in Bonney Lake had been downgraded to level 1, meaning that residents can return to their homes, but should remain prepared to leave if conditions worsen.

However, a pair of major roadways remain closed to most traffic. State Route 410 is closed in both directions from Sumner to Bonney Lake to all traffic. The Washington State Department of Transportation has crews working to repair the damaged roadway, and late Monday announced that they intend to reopen the state route sometime Tuesday morning.

In Bonney Lake, Myers Road has also been closed to all but local residents. The closure means only those who live on Myers can use the road, and only to get to and from their homes. Drivers in the area are also asked to remain mindful of fire vehicles and hoses, which will be dotting the road as firefighters continue to try and increase containment.

Update: As of 9 a.m. Tuesday morning, both Myers and SR 410 have been reopened to traffic.

In the meantime, officials are asking everyone to remain patient until the roads are reopened, and vigilant in case the situation worsens.

Finally, anyone who would like to donate to help fire victims is being directed to the Red Cross. Since the fire started there has been an outpouring of support from across Pierce County, from the students of Sumner High gathering literal tons of food to support those in need, to regular donations and offers of shelter. Due to the ongoing pandemic, however, WSDOT crews and firefighters cannot accept physical donations for their hard work, and donors are instead being asked to give online.