Cle Elum-area fire deemed contained | Seattle Times Newspaper

CLE ELUM, Kittitas County — Firefighting officials say a stubborn wildfire that destroyed dozens of homes in Central Washington has been completely contained after a two-week fight.

Spokesmen for the Taylor Bridge fire announced full containment Tuesday evening.

The blaze that started Aug. 13 east of Cle Elum has burned more than 36 square miles, or 23,500 acres, about 75 miles east of Seattle.

The number of firefighters has been reduced from hundreds to 40, who are dousing hot spots.

Authorities have confirmed 61 homes and 35 outbuildings were destroyed and about seven other properties were damaged.

The fire started near a bridge-construction site, though the exact cause remains under investigation.

By The Associated Press