Priest Rapids Dam was evacuated Thursday afternoon after a fire broke out in one of the generating units. About 50 to 60 Grant PUD employees were evacuated when the fire started about 3:15 p.m. in the exciter cabinet of the No. 1 generating unit, according to PUD officials. The exciter creates an energy field that the unit needs to begin generating electricity. PUD employees were able to use the unit’s CO2 fire extinguishing system to put the fire out at about 3:30 p.m. prior to firefighters’ arrival. Employees also initiated a process to clear smoke from the powerhouse. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The No. 1 generating unit is currently out of service. PUD officials say the fire did not impact any of the dam’s other 10 units.