Yakima Valley Emergency Information & Resources
Travel Advisories, Alerts, Evacuation Info., Road Conditions and Weather Info
We want to help keep residents and visitors safe when wildfires and other emergencies impact our region. That means helping you stay informed. Check this page to find what you need to know if you’re impacted by an emergency here in Yakima County or if you need a place to go during an emergency in your area.
Current Air Quality in Yakima, WA
Yakima County Emergency Alerts & Information
Every emergency is unique. Local evacuation plans and resources vary depending on the type of emergency and the location, especially since Yakima County is such a large, diverse geographical area.
Yakima County Emergency Management is always the primary source for official information about severe weather, fires, floods, toxic environmental issues, radiological events and other emergencies. You’ll find up-to-date information about the status of emergencies, evacuation levels and locations, shelters and more on their website. They also publish updates on Facebook and X (Twitter) and can be reached by phone at 509-574-1900.
Sign up for alerts! Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, sign up for Alert Yakima to make sure you receive current emergency notifications. Alerts are geographically based. Residents sign up with their street address. If you’re visiting, register your mobile phone number and the street address of the place you’re staying while you visit.
They also have detailed evacuation planning information on their site.
Check local news providers for information:
Road Conditions and Closures
If you have to travel during an emergency or have been evacuated, check WSDOT Real-Time Travel Data for information about your route before you go. Sign up for WSDOT travel alerts for routes to and from Yakima.
If the route you planned to take to or from the Yakima Valley is closed, check the status of alternative routes. The primary travel routes in and out of the area are:
- I-90 from Seattle to Ellensburg
- State Route 820 through the Yakima River Canyon
- Highway 12/White Pass
- State Route 410/Chinook Pass
- State Route 24
Emergency Resources & Lodging
Need a place to stay during an emergency? Several Yakima Valley hotels are equipped and ready to provide respite during emergencies. We recommend contacting hotels directly for emergency-related stays. They can help evacuees and emergency personnel find the best lodging to meet your needs.
Check this list to find lodging information and hotel contact information for evacuees.
Emergency Lodging Options All LodgingWildfire Information & Resources
As wildfires continue to impact communities and recreation areas in our region, we encourage visitors and residents to stay informed and be alert. Conditions can change rapidly, and information is your greatest resource in an emergency.
Alerts & Resources
Find the latest alerts, evacuation notices and announcements from Yakima County Emergency Management. They also publish updates on Facebook and X (Twitter) and can be reached by phone at 509-574-1900. Sign up to receive Alert Yakima emergency notifications, including evacuation announcements.
Watch Duty provides real-time updates about fire and flood emergencies, with detailed maps. It provides real-time information and updates from verified sources, including local officials and response agencies.
Check Air Quality Before Spending Time Outdoors
Wildfires in the region may impact the air quality here in the Yakima Valley. Before heading outdoors, check the Washington Air Quality Map.