8/11/2014 AM South Cle Elum Ridge Fire Update

Yesterday: In the afternoon, two spot fires started to the southwest of the main fire. Firefighters worked late into the night and made good progress halting the growth of those spot fires.  Crews did some burnout operations along the north flank to strengthen the line and were able to put an initial dozer line down the east side of the fire. Firefighting resources continue to arrive, the number of personnel working on the fire more than doubled over the last 24-hours.  

Today:  A red flag warning has been issued for the Cle Elum area for dry and unstable conditions followed by thunderstorms with lightning. Given the weather conditions, expect to see smoke from active afternoon burning on the fire.  On the north flank of the fire near the top of South Cle Elum Ridge, firefighters will work on strengthening and holding the line preventing fire spread to the north. Crews will also be working on getting dozer and handlines in on the east, west and south flanks.  Helicopters and air tankers will continue to support firefighters on the ground as needed.

Evacuation Information: No change in evacuation levels. There continues to be a Level I evacuation advisement for the 15 homes over a mile away from the fire on the Woods and Steele Road. 

Forest Closures: For public and firefighter safety the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has issued an Area Closure in the Taneum Creek Area. Road blocks are in place on Forest Road 4510 (Woods and Steele Road), junction of Forest Roads 3352 and 119 (Five Corners) and Forest Road 3300 at the Bridge across the South Fork Taneum Creek.

Due to very high fire danger a campfire ban has been in place on the Okanogan-Wentachee National Forest since July 18^th.  It is extremely important that forest visitors and campers continue to cooperate and support local firefighting efforts by having no campfires.

Weather Outlook: Monday will be hot and dry.  There is a chance of scattered thunderstorms Monday night.  Light winds are predicted to be out of the northeast during the day with the possibility of gusty erratic winds near thunderstorms in the evening.

For area closure information contact: Cle Elum Ranger District: 509.852.1100 Monday through Friday 8-4:30pm.

Cooperating Agencies: The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington State Department of Natural Resources, Kittitas County Fire Districts 7 and 1, and Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office.