9/04/2015 North Star and Tunk Block Fire Update

Yesterday’s Activities: Continued lower humidity levels, fueled fire activity on both the North Star and Tunk Block Fires yesterday. Firefighters also responded to smoke reports, but most were well inside the perimeter of the fire. There was little growth to either fire.

Firefighters gained more control on the northeast and southeast potion of the Tunk Block fire as well as well as the north west portion of the North star fire.

Today’s Operations: Arial operation ignition will continue today if weather permits in the northeast corner, of the North Star Fire south of Republic as well as southwest corner north of highway I 55 to strengthen containment lines in these areas. More resources are being added, including chippers, engines and crews. Crews will continue constructing line directly adjacent to the fires edge where it is safe and effective to do so. They are also connecting roads and natural features to establish indirect line. On the North Star Fire, crews with the help of dozers and air attack are building direct fireline and improving indirect line; preparing it for burnout operations.

On the Tunk Block Fire, crews will continue work securing homes south of Crawfish Lake. Dozers will be building line in the northeast portion of the fire and firefighters will continue mopping-up to strengthen established containment lines.

Weather: The forecast is cool and partly cloudy with a slight chance of showers in the afternoon. Maximum temperatures 60-65 at higher elevations and 65-72 in the valleys. Relative humidity is 18-23% in valleys and 23-28% midslopes and ridges.

Evacuations/Closure Information: Evacuation and closure information is dynamic and changes more frequently than this report is updated. For the most current evacuation information, please contact your closest Emergency Operations Center (EOC): Colville Tribal Emergency Services 509-634-2105, Okanogan County EOC (509) 422-7206, Ferry County EOC 509-775-3132.

Highway closure information is available online: http://www.wsdot.com/traffic/trafficalerts

National Forest Lands east of Tonasket and south of highway 20 on the Tonasket Ranger District are closed. Colville Indian Reservation forest and recreational areas are closed.