CHENEY – Firefighters have made considerable progress in slowing the West Hallett Fire that started in the 6000 block of Cheney Spokane Road at approximately 1:30 this afternoon.

The most recent update shows over 200 acres have burned, and high wind gusts helped the fire to spread.

Level three evacuations are in place, and Cheney High School was made an official evacuation center.

The Bi-Mart Arena has been made available for livestock and large animal evacuations.

Over a dozen firefighting aircraft have been assisting ground crews for hours.

Two helicopters were joined by several p...