The wildfires that have consumed much of Washington are now making it difficult to provide even basic supplies for crews battling the blazes, especially in the Okanogan Valley.

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More than 1,300 people are currently fighting the Okanogan Complex fire, which now has the distinction of being the largest fire in Washington state history. As of Tuesday afternoon, roughly 15 percent of the blaze is contained, up from 10 percent Monday. The fires grew by more than 13,700 acres Monday and now cover more than 258,000 acres, according to emergency management officials. They could continue burning for several more months.

With that, the city of Yakima is asking valley residents to donate supplies at one of two fire departments in town, until noon this Friday.

Stations accepting donations, any time of day, will be Station No. 91 at 401 N. Front St. as well as Station No. 93 at 40th and Englewood avenues.

Here's the list of specific, nonperishable items needed for transport to the Okanogan Complex site (specifically, the Firefighter Relief Center at the Tonasket Visitor Center):

  • Jerky
  • Granola bars
  • Bottled water
  • Gum
  • White socks
  • Gatorade packet drink mix (with electrolytes)
  • White T-shirts
  • White underwear
  • ChapStick
  • Visine
  • Baby wipes
  • Ibuprofen/Tylenol
  • Bandannas
  • Tampons/pads
  • Gallon-size Ziploc bags

Donations of money can also be accepted at the two fire stations (checks should be made
out to the Yakima Firefighters Association) and will be used to purchase additional supplies.

Further questions regarding the city's donation drive can be directed to Randy Beehler by calling 509-901-1142 or e-mailing randy.beehler@yakimawa.gov.

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