3 Firefighters Killed Battling Wildfire in Washington State, Governor Says

— -- Three firefighters were killed battling a wildfire in Washington state, according to the governor.

"I was just told that three firefighters died while battling the Twisp fire and four were injured," said the state's Gov. Jay Inslee. "My heart breaks over the loss of life."

Four other firefighters were injured near the eastern Washington town.

"They gave their lives to protect others," the statement said. "It was their calling, but the loss for their families is immense and I know the community will come together to support them. We will also keep the injured firefighters in our prayers.

Earlier Wednesday night, the towns of Winthrop and Twisp were evacuated because of the fires, according to the Okanogan County Department of Emergency Management.

Those evacuating were told to head south.

"The conditions throughout the area remain extremely dangerous and I hope residents and visitors will heed evacuation orders or other emergency directions," the governor said.

Multiple wildfires were burning in Eastern Washington, according to the governor's office.

The blazes have destroyed more than 50 homes, 60 other structures and more than 235,000 acres of land.

Some 300 National Guardsmen have been called up to help deal with the fires and some 3,600 homes remained threatened, the governor's office said.