August 3, 2016 1950 Hours Kewa Wildfire DAILY UPDATE

Keller, WA – The Kewa Fire began on the afternoon of August 2nd and is 1,845 acres. The decrease in fire size in this Update is due to more accurate mapping.
Little to no activity occurred overnight. Thunderstorms, heavy rain, and cooling temperatures helped firefighters in their efforts to constructing dozer lines providing structure protection.
Today warmer temperatures ranging from 80 – 84 degrees, decreased winds, and little to no fire behavior have improved the opportunities for firefighters with direct and indirect attack. Firefighting priorities include securing the eastern-most perimeter of the fire to prevent further spread to the east. Fire lines – comprised of existing road, dozer and hand line – have effectively decreased the growth of the fire in that direction. At one point there were ten aircraft dropping water and retardant along the west flank to stop the fire from moving in the directions of steep slopes where fuels are heavy with timber and brush.

Evacuation Level still remain in effect:
Twenty-four structures are threated and three residents have been notified of a Level 3 Evacuation. A Level 3 Evacuation means LEAVE IMMEDIATELY.
Several other residents have been notified of a Level 2 Evacuation. A Level 2 Evacuation means BE READY. This level indicates there is significant danger to your area, and residents should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or with family/friends outside of the affected area.

Firefighters are dealing with steep slopes, and the fire is fueled by mixed timber, brush and grass.
The Kewa Fire has burned 1,845 acres south of Inchelium, WA. Approximately 70 fire fighters are assigned to this fire. Temporary fight restrictions remain in place meaning no drones or nonessential aircraft are allowed within the fire zone.
The objectives are to locate safe access routes and to identify anchor points and existing roads or natural barriers to construct fire lines.
Transition to a Type 2 Interagency Incident Management Team will take place tomorrow at 0700 hours. The Incident Command Post will be set up at the Inchelium Community Center, Hornet Lane #9, Inchelium, WA.
A night Incident Commander has been assigned along with additional resources will be working on the fire line all night. A night Duty Officer will be available to address imminent needs at the MTFC.