Over 200 acres burned
One of the larger firefighting planes makes a pass, dropping water on the blaze.
The fire could be seen jumping from tree to tree with the high wind gusts on July 31.
One of the initial firefighting planes makes a pass, dropping water in a line to protect homes in the area.
Moments after dropping water, the planes had to fly through a wall of smoke.
Flames engulfed trees as the fire moved closer to homes along Cheney Spokane Road.
CHENEY – Firefighters have made considerable progress in slowing the West Hallett Fire that started in the 6000 block of Cheney Spokane Road at approximately 1:30 this afternoon.
The most recent update shows over 200 acres have burned, and high wind gusts helped the fire to spread.
Level three evacuations are in place, and Cheney High School was made an official evacuation center.
The Bi-Mart Arena has been made available for livestock and large animal evacuations.
Over a dozen firefighting aircraft have been assisting ground crews for hours.
Two helicopters were joined by several propeller planes and at least one tanker filled with retardant.
The aircraft are working systematically to prioritize saving the threatened structures in the area.
Cheney Spokane Road is closed at Highway 195.
We will continue to provide updates as more information is made available.
Matthew graduated from West Virginia University-Parkersburg in 2011 with a journalism degree. He's an award-winning photographer and enjoys writing stories about people.
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