A Level 3 Immediate Evacuation is in effect for Nespelem and surrounding areas as of Tuesday morning.

The order was issued Monday night after 9:30 because of three fires burning near Nespelem, Buffalo Lake, Agency and Cash Creek.

Shelter is being set up in Coulee Dam.  State Route 155 was closed in both directions from Nespelem to Omak because of fire after 10 pm Monday night, but was reopened early Tuesday morning.

Air quality in the area is deteriorating because of the intensity of the fires.

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