Tuesday, September 1, 2015

9/1/2015 North Star and Tunk Block Update

NOTE:  The Incident Information phone number has changed to 509-826-7140

Yesterday’s Activities:  The continuation of cooler, wetter weather allowed crews to take advantage of opportunities to build line closer to the fire’s edge where it was safe and effective to do so. Scattered light showers across the fires combined with relative humidity values of 40-50% subdued fire behavior.  Fire activity in large fuel and litter under forest canopy is continuing to smolder and creep.
On the North Star Fire, crews continued to improve line south of Republic and to tie in line in the Scatter Creek drainage.   Structure protection groups remained positioned in the Republic area.  
On the Tunk Block Fire, crews began burnout operations in the southeast portion of the fire. A number of smokes were reported in the Crawfish area. Firefighters responded to check on fire activity and found no areas of concern.
Highway 155 between Omak and Nespelem was reopened in the afternoon.
Today’s Operations:  The objectives for the fires continue to be, in order of importance, protection of life, protection of property and structures and protection of natural resources.  Mitigating the threat to the communities of Republic, Nespelem, Aeneas Valley, Crawfish and scattered residences throughout the fire area is the primary mission once risks to life and safety have been addressed.
On the North Star Fire, crews will continue to build on progress made yesterday.  Firefighters will be looking for opportunities to burnout line in the Aeneas Valley area when conditions are favorable.
On the Tunk Block Fire, firefighters will be working to finish contingency line that will tie the North Star and Tunk Block fires together on the north side. Crews will continue work securing homes in the Crawfish area. Dozers will be building line in the northeast portion of the fire.
Weather:   The forecast continues to be for cooler conditions, with a slight chance of rain showers in the evening.  High temperatures will be in the upper 60s.  Relative humidity levels will be between 35-45%.  Cooler temperatures are expected to continue through the week. However, conditions are expected to be drier by the end of the week. 
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
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.
Highway Closure information is available online: http://www.wsdot.com/traffic/trafficalerts 

Twitter:   @OkaWenNF
Facebook:  North Star Fire

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