8/16/2014 AM Devil's Elbow Complex Update

All roads open; evacuated residents along

East Sanpoil Road return to homes

Nespelem, Wash. – Containment on the 26,329 acre Fire is now at 30 percent. Most of the fire received a quarter inch of rain yesterday, although the northeastern portion received fourth tenths of an inch. This

wetting rain, along with higher humidities have allowed firefighters to work on the fire in a more direct manner and increase the containment percentage. “Weather has allowed us to use direct suppression tactics while saving important timber resources on the Reservation,” said Larry Nickey, Incident Commander.

Firefighters will continue work today, mopping up the fire and tying in remaining control lines. The intent is to increase control on the fire in advance of a warming and drying weather trend early next week.  As containment is gained on Devil’s Elbow, managers are downsizing staff levels appropriately. A Type III Incident Management Team is planned to shadow the current Type II Team on August 20th and assume command on August 21st.

Highway 21 in the vicinity of the Devil’s Elbow Fire is now completely open to the public. Traffic is limited to 35 mph on the highway, and law enforcement will be present. The East Sanpoil River Road will be open at noon today, allowing the final mandatory evacuees to return to their homes. Firefighting equipment will still be working along these roads and the public is urged to drive cautiously in this fire area.

Road closures that were previously Level III are now in Level II. All previously evacuated residents are able to return to their homes.

Devil’s Elbow Fire Information: 509-634-2070 (or)

www.inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4059

Quick Facts

Fire Size: Approximately

26,349 acres

Containment: 30%

Location: 10 miles north of

Keller, Washington.

One non-occupied

home and two out-buildings burned.