Firefighters Lift All Evacuation Orders Near Omak Airport Wildfire

Key Takeaways

• All evacuation orders lifted July 18, 2025, for Greenacres Fire near Omak Airport after 95% containment.
• July 14 fire spread rapidly from 40 to up to 550 acres, forcing Level 3 evacuation orders.
• State fire mobilization, emergency shelters, and cross-agency coordination helped control the wildfire quickly.

Firefighters have lifted all evacuation orders for the wildfire near Omak Airport, known as the Greenacres Fire, as of July 18, 2025. Residents can now return home after days of uncertainty, with officials confirming the fire is 95% contained and the immediate threat has passed.

Greenacres Fire: Immediate Response and Community Impact

The Greenacres Fire started suddenly on July 14, 2025, along Green Acres Road, just five miles north of Omak and close to Omak Airport. High winds quickly pushed the flames across dry grass and brush, causing the fire to grow from 40 acres to between 400 and 550 acres in just a few hours. The fire destroyed several homes and outbuildings, damaged power lines, and left many residents without electricity. According to Okanogan County Emergency Management, the fire forced quick action, including the issuing of Level 3 (GO NOW) evacuation orders for neighborhoods near Omak Airport and Riverside.

By the evening of July 14, the situation was so serious that Okanogan Fire District 3 requested state fire mobilization. Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste approved this request at 8:30 p.m., bringing in extra firefighters and equipment from across the state. Emergency shelters opened at the Omak Seventh Day Adventist Church, and the Okanogan County Fairgrounds provided a safe place for animals.

Evacuation Orders and Community Safety

Evacuation orders are official instructions from emergency managers telling people to leave their homes because of danger. In this case, Level 3 meant residents needed to leave immediately. As the Greenacres Fire spread, these evacuation orders helped keep people safe, even though it meant leaving behind homes and belongings. For many, the sudden evacuation was stressful and frightening, especially as power outages and downed trees made travel difficult.

By the morning of July 15, firefighters had slowed the fire’s progress, and winds began to die down. Officials reduced the evacuation orders to Level 1, which means residents could return but should stay alert for changing conditions. By July 16, with the fire 95% contained, all evacuation advisories were lifted. Residents could finally return home, though some found damage to their property and continued power outages.

Emergency Response and Coordination

The quick response to the Greenacres Fire shows how much emergency management has improved in recent years. Local, county, and state agencies worked together to fight the fire and protect people. Okanogan Fire District 3, led by Fire Chief Jeremy Patrick, coordinated with state officials to bring in extra help. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources also played a key role, providing resources and information to the public.

Shelters and animal accommodations were set up quickly, making sure everyone—people and pets—had a safe place to go. As the fire threat faded, these shelters closed, and support shifted to helping residents return home and recover.

Timeline of Key Events

• July 14, 2025:
  • Fire starts near Green Acres Road, grows rapidly to 400–550 acres.
  • Level 3 evacuation orders issued for areas near Omak Airport and Riverside.
  • State fire mobilization approved at 8:30 p.m.
  • Emergency shelters and animal accommodations set up.
• July 15, 2025:
  • Fire remains uncontained in the morning.
  • Evacuation orders reduced to Level 1.
• July 16, 2025:
  • Fire reaches 95% containment.
  • All evacuation advisories lifted.
• July 17, 2025:
  • Area remains under observation, but no new evacuation orders issued.

Policy Context and Broader Support

The Greenacres Fire is part of a larger trend of severe wildfires in the Pacific Northwest. In recent years, Washington State has improved its wildfire emergency protocols, making it easier for local agencies to get help from the state quickly. This rapid mobilization helped contain the Greenacres Fire before it could cause even more damage.

Looking beyond the United States 🇺🇸, the Canadian 🇨🇦 government has also taken steps to help people affected by wildfires. In 2025, Canada 🇨🇦 offered free replacement of lost documents and waived fees for emergency workers until November 30, 2025. While these policies are Canadian, they show a growing focus on wildfire preparedness and support across North America.

Indigenous communities in the cross-border Okanogan region are also seeing changes. The 2023–2028 First Nations Fire Protection Strategy, updated in 2024, aims to modernize fire safety and education, with $20.9 million set aside over three years. These efforts help protect vulnerable communities and improve fire response for everyone in the region.

Practical Steps for Residents Returning Home

With all evacuation orders lifted, residents can now focus on returning home and starting the recovery process. Here are important steps to follow:

1. Check for Official All-Clear:
   Make sure evacuation advisories have been lifted by checking with Okanogan County Emergency Management or local news sources.
2. Return Home Safely:
   Watch for road closures, downed power lines, or other hazards. Follow any instructions from emergency officials.
3. Assess Property:
   Carefully check your home and property for damage. Take photos and write down what you find for insurance or disaster assistance.
4. Contact Utilities:
   If you still have no power or notice other problems, call your local utility provider to report the issue.
5. Seek Support if Needed:
   If your home was damaged or destroyed, contact local emergency management for help with recovery resources.

Ongoing Monitoring and Community Support

Even though the immediate danger has passed, fire officials continue to watch the area for any flare-ups. The risk to homes and infrastructure is now much lower, but residents should stay alert, especially during the dry summer months. Power restoration is ongoing in areas where lines and poles were damaged. Local utility providers are working to fix outages as quickly as possible.

Emergency shelters and animal accommodations have closed, but support is still available for those who need it. If you need help, contact Okanogan County Emergency Management or visit their official website for real-time updates and resources.

Key Stakeholders and Official Statements

Several groups played important roles during the Greenacres Fire:

• Okanogan County Emergency Management:
  Led the local response, coordinated evacuations, and kept the public informed.
• Okanogan Fire District 3 (Fire Chief Jeremy Patrick):
  Requested state help and directed firefighting efforts.
• Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste:
  Approved state fire assistance, bringing in extra resources.
• Residents and Local Businesses:
  Faced evacuations, power outages, and property loss, but also showed resilience and cooperation.

Background: Wildfire Risk in Okanogan County

Okanogan County is no stranger to wildfires. The region’s dry, windy summers make it especially vulnerable. The 2025 wildfire season has been worse than usual, with above-normal fire potential due to ongoing drought and frequent high winds. The National Interagency Fire Center predicted these conditions, and local agencies prepared for a busy fire season.

Fires like the Greenacres Fire are becoming more common across the Pacific Northwest. In 2025, multiple large fires have burned across the region, stretching firefighting resources and forcing communities to adapt. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these trends highlight the need for strong emergency plans and community cooperation.

Future Outlook: Preparing for More Wildfires

Experts warn that the risk of wildfires will remain high through at least August 2025. Dry conditions and windy weather are likely to continue, making it important for everyone to stay prepared. Here’s what residents can do:

• Maintain Defensible Space:
  Clear brush, dead trees, and other flammable materials from around your home.
• Stay Informed:
  Sign up for emergency alerts and follow updates from local officials.
• Have a Plan:
  Know what to do if another evacuation order is issued. Keep important documents, medications, and supplies ready to go.
• Help Neighbors:
  Check on elderly or disabled neighbors who may need extra help during emergencies.

Communities are also investing in better fire prevention and emergency response. This includes updating equipment, training firefighters, and improving communication systems. Policymakers are focusing on climate adaptation and building resilience, so that future fires cause less harm.

Lessons Learned and Community Resilience

The Greenacres Fire tested the strength and preparedness of Okanogan County. Quick action by firefighters and emergency managers saved lives and limited damage. The community’s response—neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers supporting shelters, and local businesses offering aid—shows the power of working together during a crisis.

For those who lost homes or property, recovery will take time. Insurance claims, repairs, and rebuilding can be stressful, but support is available. Local, state, and federal agencies offer disaster assistance, and community groups often step in to help those in need.

Policy Changes and Support for Affected Groups

The Greenacres Fire also highlights the importance of clear policies and strong support systems. Recent changes in emergency management have made it easier for local agencies to get help quickly. Investments in fire prevention and education are helping communities prepare for future threats.

Special attention is being given to vulnerable groups, including Indigenous communities and those living in high-risk areas. Programs like the First Nations Fire Protection Strategy in Canada 🇨🇦 provide funding and training to improve fire safety. These efforts benefit the entire region, especially in cross-border areas like Okanogan County.

What to Do If You Need Help

If you are still facing problems after the Greenacres Fire, here are some steps you can take:

• Contact Okanogan County Emergency Management:
  They can connect you with recovery resources, including temporary housing, food assistance, and mental health support.
• Check with Local Utility Providers:
  For updates on power restoration and to report any hazards.
• Visit the Washington State Department of Natural Resources:
  For information on fire prevention and safety tips. Their official website offers up-to-date information on wildfires across the state.
• Document Damage:
  Take photos and keep records for insurance or disaster assistance applications.
• Reach Out to Community Groups:
  Local churches, charities, and volunteer organizations often provide extra help during recovery.

Looking Ahead: Building a Safer Future

As wildfires become more common and severe, communities must stay ready. This means not only responding quickly when fires break out, but also working year-round to reduce risks. Clearing brush, maintaining equipment, and practicing evacuation plans can make a big difference.

Officials are also working to improve policies and invest in new technology. Drones, better mapping tools, and improved communication systems help firefighters respond faster and more safely. Training programs teach residents how to protect their homes and families.

Conclusion: Recovery and Vigilance

The lifting of all evacuation orders for the Greenacres Fire near Omak Airport is a relief for residents, but the work is not over. Recovery will take time, and the risk of more fires remains high. By staying informed, prepared, and connected, communities can face these challenges together.

If you need more information or help, contact Okanogan County Emergency Management or visit their official website for real-time updates and resources. For statewide fire information and prevention tips, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources is a trusted source.

The Greenacres Fire is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community. By learning from this experience and supporting each other, Okanogan County and the wider region can build a safer, more resilient future.

Learn Today

Evacuation Orders → Official instructions requiring residents to leave an area due to immediate danger from wildfires or other threats.
Containment → The percentage of a wildfire perimeter where fire spread is stopped by control lines or natural barriers.
Level 3 Evacuation → The highest urgency evacuation requiring immediate departure from an endangered area for safety.
State Fire Mobilization → A coordinated effort by the state government to deploy additional firefighting resources for emergency situations.
Defensible Space → A cleared area around a property that reduces fire risk by removing flammable vegetation and debris.

This Article in a Nutshell

The Greenacres Fire near Omak Airport threatened homes and power lines, triggering Level 3 evacuations. Containment reached 95% by July 16. Emergency response involved multiple agencies, shelters, and swift mobilization. Residents can safely return, but recovery and vigilance remain vital as wildfire risks continue in 2025.
— By VisaVerge.com