07/25/2015 North Boulder 2 Fire Update

Fire Information: (509) 738-7018 Email: NorthBoulder2Fire@gmail.com

Website:  www.inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4411/

On July 20, a weather system moved through the Kettle Falls area starting several lightning caused wildfires. The fires burned in heavy timber, in steep, rugged terrain. Local initial attack resources diligently worked to gain access into the area to fight the fires. With limited road access, firefighter safety was of the utmost concern. The Northern New Mexico Type 3 Incident Management Team (NNM-IMT3) was called to assist and assumed command of the Kettle North Complex consisting of six fires.

Firefighters made good progress over the last few days, and five of the six fires are either contained or completely extinguished. The NNM-IMT3 team will continue to work on the Profanity Peak fire. Once complete, the fires will be turned back to the Three Rivers Ranger District on the Colville National Forest. 

On July 24, the NNM-IMT3 transitioned with Washington Incident Management Team 2 (WAIMT2) and the incoming Type 2 Team was detailed to manage the North Boulder 2 fire.

The North Boulder 2 fire is located 27 miles from the town of Colville, burning in heavy mixed conifer with a large amount of standing dead trees and heavy surface fuels. 

Approximately 158 acres are now burned. The WAIMT2 is working closely with the Colville National Forest fire managers in developing fire control strategies and tactics. 

Due to the remote location of the fire, and safety issues, firefighters are implementing an indirect strategy along the northern perimeter brushing roads, clearing debris to gain access and scouting for anchor points. Resources include three hotshot crews: Vale, Redmond and Winema from Oregon, two dozers, and one Type 3 helicopter. Approximately 147 firefighters are now assignment to the fire with additional resources ordered. The fire is in the municipal water supply of the town of Orient, Washington. There are no threats to private property and no injuries have been reported. Firefighter and public safety is the top priority on the North Boulder 2 fire.

A cold front passage with showers and wet thunderstorms will moderate fire behavior today. Along the front, south winds with stronger gusts are expected. With any lightning, new fire starts are possible and initial attack crews are preparing for the potential of additional fires.

Washington Interagency Incident Management Team 2 (WA IMT2) would like to thank the public for their support during the North Boulder 2 fire. Fire danger remains extremely high across the state. Be sure to check your fire agencies for local restrictions, forest and state closures.