Crews Gaining Ground on Walla Walla’s Blue Creek Fire

WALLA WALLA (AP) — Crews continue to fight a wildifre in southeast Washington that has destroyed one home and seven outbuildings.

The Blue Creek fire has burned more than nine square miles of grass, shrubs and timber about 10 miles east of Walla Walla, a city of 60,000. As of Sunday afternoon, it was 35 percent contained.

Authorities said they're "cautiously optimistic" the flames won't reach a watershed that provides drinking water for the city of Walla Walla. They said a low pressure system moving into the area is bringing cooler temperatures and higher humidity.

Evacuation orders are in effect for two rural areas. The fire, which started last Monday, was likely human-caused and is still under investigation.