7/11/2015 Little Spokane and 231 Fire Update AM

Little Spokane Fire is located in Riverside State Park near mile marker 10 off Highway 291, and started on July 6. The 231 Fire, located seven miles south of Springdale, started on July 3, and is burning on state and private land. The cause of both fires is under investigation. Public and firefighter safety is a concern. There are approximately 450 total personnel working on these fires.

The Little Spokane Fire is 70% contained and is168 acres; the reduction in acres is due to better mapping. There is a line around the fire and firefighters will continue to work today to strengthen that line. Hand held infrared cameras will be used today to find and mark any pockets of heat not visible to the human eye. These spots will be extinguished. Firefighters have hose lays around the entire perimeter; crews will continue to extinguish any remaining pockets of heat within 200 feet of the line.

Smoke may continue to be visible. Painted Rocks trailhead is closed. Evacuation orders in the area have been lifted. Five 20-person crews, 1 water tender, 7 engines, and a dozer are assigned to Little Spokane Fire.

The 231 fire is 100% contained. Rehabilitation of fire line will be completed today. Crews continue to patrol the fire perimeter. Smoke may continue to be visible on the interior of the fire. There are 20 engines, a dozer and 2 water tenders are assigned to 231 Fire.

The weather today will be much cooler and more humid. Maximum temperatures will be in the low 80’s with southwest winds 6-10 with gusts to 20 mph. Rain showers are possible.

With continued dry conditions, fire season is far from over in Washington. Firefighters count on the public to help reduce risk. When residents of a fire prone community clear brush, trees and other flammable materials away from their homes, it helps keep residents and firefighters safe. More information on what can be done around homes in fire prone communities can be found at www.firewise.org.

Lake Spokane Campground and boat launch remain closed, however, they will tentatively reopen on Tuesday after fire personnel have departed. Riverside State Park has closed the Painted Rock Trailhead for public safety. Complete recreation information can be found by calling 509-465-5064.