SHELTON, Wash. – A brush fire is threatening homes and prompting evacuation notices in Mason County.

State fire officials continue to fight the blaze, which broke out sometime Tuesday afternoon, July 4th.

More than 200 homes near the city of Shelton were under evacuation notices, according to KING5.

The fire has burned about 250 acres of land so far.

The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Red Flag Warning for the western slopes of the Cascades.

Warm, dry temperatures in the 80s could spark more wildfires and cause existing fires to grow.

The Red Flag Warning is in effect until 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 5th.

The Department of Natural Resources also says two large wildfires are currently burning east of the Cascades.

As those fires continue to burn, our local air quality is taking a slight hit.

IQ Air reports that most of Whatcom County has “moderate” level air quality.

Some areas, including Birch Bay and Sumas, are reporting air qualities that are “unhealthy for sensitive groups.”

People are being advised to wear masks outdoors if they are more sensitive to air pollution.

Whatcom County air quality is expected to improve by Thursday, July 6th.