UPDATE#1.   8:00 p.m.  The section of the Old Highway remains closed as fire crews work on the fire, and will probably be closed throughout the night.  There have been no evacuations, and there is no reason to believe evacuations will be necessary; however if the need arises, deputies on scene and are prepared conduct evacuations if necessary. 

Fire crews remain optomistic in continuing to gain control and keep control of the fire. 

If there is any change we will provide updates as appropriate. 

Kalama, WASH - Fire authorities have been working on a fire near Mile Post 30 north of Kalama since 3:00 p.m.  The fire started near I-5 and has traveled up the hill to the east, near Bluff Road.   No houses have been burned, and no evacuations are required. 

The Old highway (county road) which parallels I5 has been shut down while a helicopter drops water on the fire.  The old highway is closed between Mt. Pleasant road on the north end, and at Kalama River Road on the south end. 

The Washington State Patrol is releasinhg information regularly as it relates to the status of I5. 

People can also look at the Cowlitz Department of Emergency Managements FB page for information.

We will provide updates as the situation changes.  Fire authorities believe they are making good progress on controlling the fire but it is a working fire and it is not contained yet.