Tuesday, Sept 15, 2015 Wolverine Fire Update
Today, firefighters are completing indirect line in the Three Creek area, a tributary of the Entiat River. This location is the most active part of the Wolverine Fire. In addition to steep and rugged terrain, crews are facing the additional challenge of cooler and wetter weather, fewer hours of daylight, and the increased presence of bears.
Nonetheless, in some areas, firefighters are pulling pumps and stacking hose. Structures wrapped with a fire-shelter type material are being unwrapped. Pumps, hoses and other “water plumbing” laid around structures are being pulled. Fire equipment stationed in Lake Chelan areas has or is being returned by boat.
The process of repairing lines is also underway in earnest. Berms are being pulled back, and water bars are being constructed in areas of bare soil to re-channel water flow. One helicopter has been reassigned to another incident. That leaves three helicopters today to drop water as needed if the fire starts pushing containment lines.
The public is asked to be aware of national forest and road closures and to check current conditions before planning forest activities. 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. Steep terrain, falling snags and recent past extreme fire behavior dictate containment strategies.
First Creek Fire: Two hand crews, four engines, and two dozers are working on First Creek today. The repair of fire lines and roads is on-going with good progress being made. Residents of the First Creek area are asked to be aware of the possibility of mudslides following any rain. Visit: http://www.
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: The area in which the fire is located is in-between weather systems today. Cloud cover is expected to decrease though temperatures will remain cool. Up slope and up valley winds will be light. Rain showers and mountain snow are expected late Wednesday into early Thursday.
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:
· 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.
· Methow Ranger District:
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· Wenatchee River District:
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· Chelan Ranger District:
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· Entiat Ranger District:
509-784-4700 |
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