Monday, June 29, 2015

06/29/2015 Paradise Fire A.M. Update


Paradise Fire Update  
June 29, 2015

For Immediate Release
360-797-5366*** Note New Information Phone Number


Crews on the Paradise Fire reported moderating weather and limited fire growth on Sunday, a change from the previous several days of high temperatures and low relative humidity. While other parts of the Pacific Northwest experienced lightning and thunderstorms, only intermittent sprinkles fell on the fire area. A smoke inversion also contributed to a quieter day.

Yesterday's highlight for fire crews camped out in the Queets River drainage was the delivery of a satellite communications unit. This will allow the firefighters to keep in closer contact with fire management officials at the Incident Command Post in Port Angeles. The unit improves safety conditions by giving the crews access to maps and creates more secure communications links in the event of an illness, emergency, or other situation that requires increased coordination of fire management activities. It also provides a convenience of telephone and internet contact with the outside world.

Yesterday's milder weather conditions will be repeated for the next two days as a high pressure system breaks down and is replaced by an upper level low that should last until Tuesday. However, high temperatures and increased fire potential return mid-week and are expected to remain through the upcoming 4th of July holiday weekend. Crews will continue their work to confine the fire north of the Queets River.

Olympic National Park has instituted a ban on open fires in the park's wilderness backcountry, including all locations along the coast. Campfires are permitted only in established fire grates at established front country campgrounds. The burn restriction will remain in place until further notice. Camp stoves may still be used in the park's wilderness backcountry, but should be operated well away from flammable vegetation and forest litter. Because of the extreme conditions on the peninsula, Olympic National Forest has also implemented fire restrictions.  

Information on this fire can be obtained on Inciweb at http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4305/, and by calling Paradise Fire Information at 360-565-2986. For real time information, visit the Paradise Fire Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Paradise-Fire/831205013596015.
For current information about visiting Olympic National Park, as well as information about the history and role of fire in the Olympic ecosystem, please visit the park's website at http://www.nps.gov/olym

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.