8/12/2014 Devil's Elbow Fire Update

Approximately 85 community members attended a meeting in Keller yesterday. They received information on current fire activity, plans for fire containment, and the goal to reopen Hwy 21 and allow evacuees to return to their homes by Saturday.

The 20,287-acre Devil’s Elbow Complex fire is burning 10 miles north of Keller, and continues to threaten nearly 150 homes and 90 other structures along Hwy 21. Thirty-two residents living nearest the fire have been evacuated. Others who live near the fire have been alerted to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.

There is a Red Flag warning today and tomorrow for Eastern Washington and thunderstorms, abundant lightning and winds are anticipated to reach the area this afternoon. Firelines will be tested today as result of unstable weather bringing with it a threat of increased fire activity, spotting and new fire starts. Later this week wetting rain will help with firefighting efforts. By this weekend hot and dry conditions will return.

Last night crews continued burnout operations on all branches of the fire. Firelines were strengthened on the western flanks from McAllister Creek to South Nanamkin Roads as dozer and handlines were completed. Today burnout will continue at McAllister and South Nanamkin Roads, but may shift to other areas in response to wind conditions. The east and north flanks from Keno Trail, Thirty Mile and Twentyfive Mile Roads will continue to be strengthened with dozers, hand work and burning out.

Because the forest is so dry and lightning is forecast, resources have also been identified to provide initial attack support to the Colville Agency’s Mt. Tolman Fire Center as needed.

Evacuations:  Level 3 along Hwy 21 from Capoose Creek/Meadow to the Bear Creek Campground. This indicates an immediate threat and people should leave the area immediately.