9/15/2015 Meeks Table Fire Update

Direct fireline construction proceeds on all flanks         

Nile, Wash. – Firefighters are making good progress to contain the Meeks Table fire.  They are taking advantage of cool, moderate weather to work safely adjacent to all but the steepest edges of the fire, using natural barriers and constructing hand lines to minimize its spread.

Mop-up is underway on the west side of the fire.  Hoses have been laid to provide water for cooling and extinguishing remaining heat sources along that perimeter.  Line construction continues along the north and east flanks of the fire.  If burning conditions are favorable this afternoon, firefighters may burn out fingers of fuel to enable using a straighter, more effective containment line.   The south edge of the fire above Rattlesnake Creek is being monitored and patrolled. 

The weather today will continue to be mild with temperatures in the mid 50’s and relative humidity above 38%.  The winds will be light, 4-8 mph.  Even with more sun today, the grass fuels may be too moist to burn well most of the day.  Although sheltered sites under tree canopy or rock outcrops still have very dry fuel that can ignite easily, the fire is expected to stay low on the ground.

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.

A Community Meeting will take place at 6pm tonight, Tuesday September 15^th at the Nile Club House, 1891 Nile Road.  The meeting will be an opportunity to learn more about the status of the Meeks Table Fire and the suppression tactics being used to contain it.