8/12/2017 Diamond Creek Fire Update

Diamond Creek Fire Update Fire Information 503-765-5724 or Diamondcreekfire@gmail.com August 12, 2017 - 10:00 a.m. Fire Location: Diamond Creek Fire is burning within the Pasayten Wilderness approximately 12 air miles north of Mazama, Washington and 5.5 miles (8.9 kilometers) south of the Canadian border. Fire History: On Friday, August 11, 2017, the fire advanced over Eightmile Pass, into the upper headwaters of Eightmile drainage. A firing operation was put into action around two structures near Billy Goat Trailhead to moderate fire intensity. Structure protection assessments have been completed on over 500 structures south of the fire. Current Status and Projected Operations: The fire has grown by 3,563 acres since last mapped, on August 10, 2017. Caution is advised when traveling nearby roadways, as fire-related traffic is heavy at times. Contingency scouting continues for additional indirect line. A Type 2 Team and additional resources have been ordered, but many resources are in short supply due to increased fire activity throughout the region. Weather, Fire Behavior, and Air Quality: Burning in steep terrain, fire growth is largely driven by topography and fuel availability. Observed fire behavior includes uphill runs, torching, crowning, and spotting up to one half mile. Infrared mapping last night shows the fire growth south to No Dice Lake and east of Big Craggy Peak. The fire has advanced beyond the closest indirect firelines in this area. There was also minor fire movement west towards Island Mountain and Many Trails Peak. Temperatures today are expected to be in the mid 80s, with variable winds and the possibility of showers and thunderstorms. Visibility remains hazy, with poor air quality. People with compromised respiratory systems should avoid outdoor physical activity. Closures and Restrictions: Road closures have been expanded due to yesterday’s fire activity. Eightmile Creek 5130 Road is now closed from West Chewuch 51 Road to Billy Goat Trailhead. The closure includes the Ruffed Grouse, Honeymoon, Nice, and Flat campgrounds. The Ortell 5220 Road is closed from Cub Pass, at the intersection with the Sweetgrass Butte 5220-100 Road, to the Eightmile 5130 Road. Sweetgrass Butte 5220-100 Road is closed from Cub Pass, at the intersection with Ortell 5220 Road, to Sweetgrass Butte. The entire Falls Creek 5140 Road is closed. A fire area closure is in effect and that area closure is expected to be expanded today. Visitors should check conditions before traveling in the area and to register at trailheads. This fire does not currently affect access to the Pacific Crest Trail or Pacific Northwest Trail. Maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire, and use of charcoal briquette barbecues, or other devices that use solid fuel is prohibited across most of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.