9/16/2017 Jolly Mountain Fire Update

Jolly Mountain Fire Update Tuesday, September 16, 2017 Careful and strategic planning, favorable weather and the judicious use of several tactical firefighting strategies has resulted in the successful containment on more than 30 percent of the Jolly Mountain Fire. Yesterday’s Activities: Aerial resources assisted crews with firing operations from Salmon la Sac south to Howson Creek. Along the western perimeter north of Morgan Creek, firefighters ensured the fire stayed within control lines. Mop up and patrol operations continued from Morgan Creek east along the southern perimeter to the Teanaway River. Where mop up is complete, crews began backhauling hose and other materials. Along the North Fork Teanaway Road, firing operations to prevent eastern spread of the fire continued. Movement of the fire along the northern perimeter remained limited with air tankers and helicopters working to keep the fire in check with strategic water drops as needed.  Today’s Activities: Because of the continued success holding the fire within established lines and meeting containment objectives, resources will continue to be released today and through the weekend. South of Salmon la Sac, crews plan to complete firing the indirect line along Forest Service Road 903 to Red Mountain Campground. To further reduce fire intensity and secure the fireline, aerial ignition operations will continue in the Little Salmon la Sac drainage today, in coordination with ground resources. Mop up and patrol continues on the southwest portion of the fire, and east along the southern flank to the North Fork Teanaway River. Backhaul of hoses, pumps, and other equipment will continue where mop up operations are complete. On the eastern perimeter, crews are engaged in patrol and mop up actions to secure the fire’s edge. Today will be the final day of night shift operations. Evacuations and Closures: Kittitas County Emergency Operations Center was able to officially reduce the Evacuation Level 3 Advisory to a Level 2 Advisory from Bear Creek to Night Sky Drive, effective 8:00 am this morning, allowing more residents affected by the fire to return home. For the official press release, visit: http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us/sheriff. 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 fir. Area fire closures remain in effect to ensure the safety of firefighters, residents, and the public. Weather and Fire Behavior: Minimal fire activity expected across most of the fire today. Conditions will be partly cloudy with areas of smoke early, and below normal temperatures. A storm system Sunday is expected to bring precipitation to the fire.