Wildfires Destroy Nearly Two Dozen Homes, Burn 5,800 Acres Near Davenport, Washington

A significant wildfire known as the Western Pines Fire has burned approximately 5,800 acres near Davenport, Washington, destroying over 50 structures, including 21 primary homes and 30 secondary buildings such as garages and sheds. Firefighters have made progress in containment, reaching 40% containment and noting a reduction in fire activity, though Level 3 evacuations remain in effect for areas within the fire perimeter. The fire is human-caused, with the exact cause still under investigation, and over 400 personnel are involved in firefighting and monitoring efforts using infrared sensors to detect smoldering hotspots. In addition, a smaller brush fire near Benton City, Washington, destroyed one home but was contained quickly with no loss of life. Separately, in Hampshire, England, about six hectares of standing crops were destroyed in a fire, prompting fire services to urge the public to avoid activities that could start fires during hot, dry weather. These incidents highlight ongoing challenges with wildfires and crop fires amid dry conditions and human activity.