PORT LUDLOW, Wash. — Firefighters are continuing to battle the Horseshoe Fire after two brush fires were reported near Rocktogo Road and State Route 104 south of Port Ludlow, prompting a major emergency response and the closure of Highway 104 in both directions.
The incident began when crews responded to a brush fire along Highway 104 near Rocktogo Road. East Jefferson Fire Rescue reported that the initial fire involved an approximately 50-by-50-foot area of vegetation beneath power lines. A second brush fire was later reported on the north side of the highway.
Local updates identified the incident as the Horseshoe Fire, which had burned approximately five acres by the latest available afternoon report. Firefighters were working to prevent further spread while extinguishing remaining hot spots and strengthening containment lines.
East Jefferson Fire Rescue reported that the eastern fire had been contained, with crews continuing to work on hot spots. Firefighters were also battling the western fire, which was reported to be approximately 25% contained at the time of the update.
The response has involved a large number of firefighters and emergency personnel. Jefferson County Public Utility District No. 1 reported that approximately 100 firefighters were on scene during the afternoon response. Crews from East Jefferson Fire Rescue, Quilcene, Brinnon, the Navy, Clallam 3, and the Washington Department of Natural Resources were among those assisting.
A Black Hawk helicopter was also reportedly seen operating over the area as part of the firefighting response. Officials have urged members of the public to stay away from the incident area while crews continue their work.
Highway 104 remains closed as firefighters respond to the brush fires. The closure was reported east of the Highway 104 and Highway 19 roundabout, and motorists have been encouraged to find alternate routes and avoid interfering with emergency operations.
Fire activity near electrical infrastructure also prompted a public safety power shut-off. Jefferson County PUD reported that hundreds of customers experienced outages during the response while utility crews remained in the area inspecting and protecting infrastructure.
The cause of the fires has not been released in the available information, and investigators may provide additional details once the emergency response is complete.
Despite the size of the fire, officials reported that no evacuations were in effect and no homes were currently threatened at the latest update. Conditions can change rapidly during an active brush fire, particularly when vegetation is dry and weather conditions are favorable for fire spread.
Residents in Port Ludlow and surrounding communities are encouraged to monitor official emergency information and follow any instructions issued by authorities.
The Horseshoe Fire remains an active incident, with firefighters continuing efforts to increase containment, extinguish hot spots, and protect nearby communities and infrastructure. Highway 104 will remain closed until officials determine that the roadway and surrounding area are safe for the public.