9/14/2015 Wolverine and First Creek Fire Update

Despite reports yesterday of dust devils being called in as fire smokes, there was minimal change in the fire’s perimeter, with some unburned fuels in the interior continuing to smolder and put up occasional smoke. With higher humidity and lower wind forecast, fire behavior is expected to be more subdued and conditions more favorable for fire behavior to decrease. Aircraft will fly as needed and as conditions allow. The public is asked to be aware of national forest and road closures, and to check current conditions before heading out. See office phone numbers and websites below.

Wolverine Fire: Five hand crews, 11 engines, 13 dozers and 10 water tenders are assigned to Wolverine today. The primary focus is on the south flank near Three Creek drainage, a tributary of the Entiat River. Line construction will continue, along with helicopter water drops to prevent fire from spreading south over the ridge toward down valley communities. Steep terrain, falling snags and recent past extreme fire behavior dictate containment strategies.

First Creek Fire: Three hand crews, six engines, and two dozers are working on First Creek today. Hand-held infrared devices will continue to be used around structures to find heat. Water bars are being constructed along fire containment lines to prevent erosion. Residents of the First Creek area are asked to be aware of the possibility of mudslides following any rain. Visit: http://www.centralwashingtonfirerecovery.info/floodwatch or contact the Emergency Management offices listed below for more information.

Blankenship: Smoke may still be visible today as some fire continues to burn on Blankenship, located on an extremely steep rock face with the Pacific Crest Trail located in the valley below. The Pacific Crest Trail remains open.

Weather: A weather disturbance will track across the region today, bringing increased clouds and possible scattered showers producing a trace to .05 inches of precipitation. The incident meteorologist is forecasting cooler temperatures, higher humidity and low wind. Rain showers and high elevation snow are likely Wednesday.

Evacuation/Aid Information: LEVEL 1 areas: Entiat River Road starting at approximately mile post 21.5 (Brief) up to the end of Entiat River Road; First Creek Road and South Shore from Morning Sun Drive to Shady Pass.

Road Closures and Evacuations:

· Douglas County Emergency Management: 509-888-6841http://tinyurl.com/DouglasCtyEM

· Chelan County Emergency Management: 509-667-6863, http:www.co.chelan.wa.us

· Road & Hwy Info: wsdot.com Twitter: @wsdot

· Washington State Patrol: 509-682-8090

Note: Forest closures are still in place, but have been modified. Check the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest webpage for details. Fire restrictions remain in effect so please remain vigilant and prevent human caused wildfires.

National Forest area closures: http://goo.gl/aTr8bU
National Park Service closures: www.nps.gov/noca/index.htm

· Methow Ranger District: 509-996-4003	· Wenatchee River District: 509-548-2550
· Chelan Ranger District: 509-682-4900	· Entiat Ranger District: 509-784-4700