Firefighters continue to fight wildfire near Walla Walla

WALLA WALLA — Crews continue to fight a wildfire in southeast Washington that destroyed one home and seven outbuildings.

The Blue Creek fire has burned more than 9 square miles of grass, shrubs and timber about 10 miles east of Walla Walla, a city of 60,000 people. As of Saturday afternoon, it was 25 percent contained.

Authorities said they’re “cautiously optimistic” the flames won’t reach a watershed that provides drinking water for the city of Walla Walla. They said a low pressure system moving into the area is bringing cooler temperatures and higher humidity.

Evacuation orders are in effect for two rural areas. The fire, which started Monday, was likely human-caused and is still under…