As Fire Crews Contain Blaze, Some Residents Return Home

Residents are returning to their homes as a wildfire burning in central Washington nears containment.

In one rural subdivision near Thorp, some homes are still standing. Others just down the road are burnt to the ground. Homeowner Frank Van Geystel says he was shocked and feels saddened for his neighbors to see his house untouched.

“I’m just lucky. I could be sittin’ there lookin’ at a bunch of rubbish. Burned up rubbish.”

Geystel and his wife left their home in the middle of the night Monday, wearing only pajamas. He says people have donated clothes, food and shelter.

Crews expect to have the Taylor Bridge Fire fully contained by Sunday.

Large fires are burning throughout the West. Firefighters predict dry lightening this weekend could spark more blazes.

Copyright 2012 Northwest News Network