Homes burned, evacuations ordered in Washington wildfire

(Reuters) - Emergency officials ordered hundreds of people to leave their homes in central Washington state as a fast-moving wildfire destroyed at least nine properties and threatened businesses on Sunday.

Many took refuge in shelters as the blaze ripped across 1,700 acres near the cities of Cashmere and Wenatchee in Chelan County, about 120 miles (200km) east of Seattle.

"Leave your home immediately, the fire is close and you are in danger," the Chelan County Emergency Management office said it a notice to residents in the area.

The office described the fire as "very dangerous", adding: "We may not be able to get to your house to warn you, so please leave your residences."

Local media reported dozens of homes and commercial establishments had caught fire. Pictures posted on Twitter showed structures engulfed in flames.

Officials said they had not yet determined what started the fire.

(Reporting by Chris Michaud; Editing by Andrew Heavens)