Trace Adkins - Trace Adkins Axes Gig Due To Washington Wildfires

Hundreds of firefighters have been battling to control blazes between the cities of Cle Elum and Ellensburg since the beginning of the week (begs13Aug12). More than 22,000 acres of land has burned, while at least 70 homes have been destroyed and hundreds of families have been evacuated.

The natural disaster has prompted Adkins to postpone his plans to stage a gig in Cle Elum and he has expressed his "heartfelt concern" for locals under threat.

A statement from Adkins reads: "With heartfelt concern for the residents of Cle Elum, WA who are currently facing devastating wildfires, I can not in good conscience stage a concert this Friday while the community is under such strain.

"We have been following the developments closely and while the Swiftwater Cellars Amphitheater is not directly in the fire’s path, Gov. Gregoire has declared a state of emergency and reports indicate that the fire, which has claimed 22,000 acres, will require up to seven more days before it is comfortably contained."

And the country rocker, whose own home was severely damaged by a fire in Tennessee last year (11), is urging fans across the U.S. to do their bit to help in any way they can.

He continues, "I know all too well what residents are feeling as they evacuate their homes. I thank God that reports indicate no loss of life. As the hundreds of firefighters, National Guardsmen and community leaders work overtime to keep everyone safe, I hope that those who have the means will also offer their help."

He adds, "We look forward to returning and celebrating the community’s strength once this crisis has passed."