09/05/2015 Carpenter Raod Fire Update

The Carpenter Road Fire is estimated at 64,903 acres and 55% containment.

Today’s rain over the fire will keep fire behavior to a minimum. The higher humidity and precipitation will be beneficial to reduce heat while cooling areas still smoldering in lighter fuels.  Personnel will be adjusting assignment locations to assist in areas that are safe to access. The expected amount of rain should not cause major runoffs however it could hinder crews from accessing the lines due to the slick and steep conditions. Firefighters will work off established roads today monitoring hot spots and mopping up where possible.

Areas of the fire that are considered contained, crews are holding the lines and mopping up 100 feet toward the interior. Crews will also mop any hot spots in a 200 feet perimeter around structures. Hand held infra-red heat detection devices, palm IR, support crews by locating heat sources along the fire edges. Work continues to create tighter containment along the fires edge reducing the number of acres burned.  Fuels that are on the ground and protected by the cover of trees will continue to burn.  Larger fuels and slash piles will still hold heat and burn slowly. Warmer and drier weather is expected to return Sunday afternoon and evening.

The spike camp for approximately 150 personnel in Valley will give crews a shorter drive to the fire line.

The Springdale-Hunters Road is now open. Motorists should drive cautiously due to slick roads and fire apparatus. The Hunters Campground in the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is open.  Recreationists will see occasional water tenders near the lake drawing water for fire suppression use.

Closures and Evacuation Information:

• Stevens County EOC:  509 684-7598 or www.co.stevens.wa.us 
• Spokane Tribal Police:  509 258-4400
  
  
  Resources Assigned: 988 personnel (total)
• 29 crews; 5 helicopters; 68 engines (wildland & structural); 22 Dozers; 20 Water Tenders; 3 Masticators

 Please follow local fire restrictions and remain mindful of fire prevention.  The Industrial Fire Protection Level (IFPL) may be changing.  Please check the Washington Department of Natural Resources website for further updates on the IFPL levels at http://www.dnr.wa.gov/ifpl