Manilla Creek fire hits 3,200 acres

The Manilla Creek fire on the Colville Indian Reservation swelled more than five times in size Wednesday, expanding to roughly 3,200 acres, said spokeswoman Doreen Smith. The fire started Monday and was estimated at 600 acres Tuesday.

Because it’s burning close to power lines, electricity has been shut off in Keller, Swawilla and the Mt. Tollman area, Smith said. The blaze was not threatening homes Wednesday, but Peter Dan and Manilla Creek roads were closed between state Routes 155 and 21.

About 230 firefighters, four helicopters and air tankers got the fire 10 percent contained by late Wednesday. It has been ruled arson and is under investigation, Smith said.