9/14/2015 Meeks Table Fire Update

Moderate weather provides opportunity to develop strategy

Nile, Wash. – Approximately 100 firefighters are currently working on the 1,001-acre Meeks Table Fire on the Naches Ranger District, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, near Nile, Wash.

The fire was reported on September 12th and grew rapidly with strong winds and dry conditions. Values at risk include several cabins along Rattlesnake Creek, cultural resources, timber resources and habitat for threatened species. The community of Nile, Wash., is approximately 5 miles east of the fire. Initial attack resources included rapellers, engines, water bucket drops from helicopters and retardant application. They limited the fire to the north side of Rattlesnake Creek and initiated a containment line on the western flank. Today’s weather is going to be much more moderate, with northwest winds 6-9 mph, temperatures in the mid-50’s and relative humidity approximately 45%.

This will enable crews to improve and extend the containment line that has been initiated on the western edge of the fire and to identify opportunities to contain the north and east perimeters.
 
To protect firefighter and public safety, the Forest Road 1600 system and the Forest Road 1500 system from the eastern Forest boundary to Bethel Ridge/ Road 199 are closed. Only firefighters and law enforcement officers are allowed to use these roads at this time. Washington Interagency Incident Management Team #4 with Brian Gales incident commander took command of the fire at 0600 this morning.

A community meeting is being planned for the evening of Tuesday September 15th in Nile, Wash. The time and location are yet to be determined.