9/15/2017 Jolly Mountain Fire Update

Jolly Mountain Fire Update Friday, September 15, 2017 Yesterday: Favorable weather conditions helped firefighters increase containment to 30% on the Jolly Mountain Fire. Hotshot crews utilized strategic firing operations to reduce unburned fuels between the containment lines and the fire south of Salmon la Sac. North of Morgan Creek on the western perimeter, firefighters patrolled to ensure the fire remained within containment lines. Mop-up operations continued on the southern perimeter and east to Teanaway River. Crews and helicopters conducted holding operations from Jungle Creek north to Beverly Campground. Today’s Activities: Aerial resources will continue to assist crews with firing operations from Salmon la Sac south to Howson Creek. Along the western perimeter north of Morgan Creek, firefighters are patrolling to ensure the fire stays within control lines. Mop up and patrol operations will continue from Morgan Creek east along the southern perimeter to the Teanaway River. Along the North Fork Teanaway Road, firing operations to prevent eastern spread of the fire will continue. Air tankers and helicopters will continue working to keep the fire in check to the north. Resources are beginning to be released as containment objectives are achieved. Evacuations: After continued success increasing containment along the southern perimeter of the fire, and upon the recommendations of the Incident Management Team, the Kittitas County Emergency Operations Center has reduced the evacuation advisories in several areas affected by the Jolly Mountain Fire. Residents returning to their homes are reminded to exercise caution as fire personnel and equipment are still actively working in the area. Smoke and occasional flames will continue to be visible in the interior of the fire. The Incident Management Team, in cooperation with local authorities, will continue assessing repopulation of residences remaining at a Level 3 evacuation. Closures and Fire Restrictions: Closures remain in effect to ensure the safety of firefighters, residents, and the public. For more information: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/5496/. Weather and Fire Behavior: Light winds and cool, moist conditions are contributing to slow, controlled fire behavior. Temperatures are forecasted to be even cooler today, with highs in the 60s as a front approaches from the west, bringing with it a chance of showers by Sunday.

Quick Facts Fire Location: Approximately 7 miles northwest of Cle Elum, WA Approximate Acreage: 34,221 Containment: 30% Reported Date: August 11, 2017 Cause: Lightning Incident Commander: Chris Schulte, Pacific Northwest Team 2 Type 1 National Incident Management Team Resources on the Fire:19 Crews, 5 Helicopters, 55 Engines Total Personnel: 805 Jurisdiction: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington Department of Natural Resources, Kittitas County, City of Cle Elum More Information JollyMountainFireInfo@gmail.com (509) 596-2423 https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5496/