Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 2 (PNW2) is in command of the Chiwaukum Complex fires as well as the Duncan and Hansel Creek Fires. Chiwaukum Complex includes Chiwaukum, Shoofly, Mills Canyon, Kelly Mountain, and Alpine Fires.
A flash flood warning is in effect for burned areas Tuesday through Thursday, as rain and thunderstorms continue. There is a 30% chance of rain Tuesday, which may fall intensely for short periods. On Wednesday there is a 50% chance of wetting rain and a 60% chance on Thursday. Higher humidity will dampen fire behavior on Tuesday, but ground fire and single tree torching will continue, and fuels are expected to dry out quickly once the weather system passes. Expect high temperatures in the upper 80’s, with gusty/erratic winds contributing to short-range spotting and a Red Flag Warning in effect until Wednesday.
The northwest corner of the Hansel Creek Fire flared up Monday, while rolling debris forced crews off the southern edge of the fire. A spot fire on the south side of Ingall’s Creek was caught using helicopter bucket drops. While the southern flank remains north of Ingall’s Creek a contingency line is being developed further south. The fire remains west of Highway 97. Structure protection is in place and the portion of the fire closest to Highway 97 remains secured.
The Duncan Fire made a run up the north side of Jungle Creek. The fire spotted at the lower end of Silver Creek and helicopters responded with additional bucket drops. Crews continue to strengthen control lines along Shady Pass Road and a burnout operation is still being considered.
An indirect attack strategy was implemented Monday on the Shoofly Fire, while heavy equipment was moved into the area to facilitate future direct attack by ground forces. The fire remains a priority with a full suppression strategy.
The Alpine Fire was water-lined 60% at the end of shift Monday, due to efforts of the Entiat Hotshots. They will continue those efforts today.
Increased fire behavior on the Chiwaukum Creek Fire Monday resulted in a slight increase in acreage as the fire slopped over McCue Ridge, but was quickly lined and stopped at half an acre. Rehabilitation of the fire lines and mop-up activities continue. Active fire remains in the Chiwaukum Creek area where spotting continues to occur.
Chiwaukum Complex fire personnel continue to provide initial attack assistance for much of the area surrounding the assigned fires.
Public Safety: There are multiple fires in the area with large equipment and increased traffic. Fire equipment may be on the roads at any time during the day as they respond to new starts, so please travel with caution.
All major roads and businesses in surrounding communities remain open and ready for business.
Evacuations/Closure Information: Chelan County Emergency Services posts updated evacuations and closures at facebook.com/pages/Chelan-
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest: http://www.fs.usda.gov/
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