9/5/2017 Norse Peak Fire Update

Norse Peak Fire

Date Started: Aug. 11, 2017      Cause:  Lightning         Total acres: 19,382      Containment: 8%        

Structures Destroyed: 0          Injuries to date: 0         Total Personnel: 337

Fire Resources: 6 crews, 22 engines, 2 helicopters, 3 bulldozers, 7 water tenders

FIRE SUMMARY        

Yesterday, fire growth on both the Norse Peak and American fires forced evacuations in the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort and surrounding neighborhoods to the west and the Bumping Lake area south. A Level 3 Evacuation Notice has been issued for Pierce County residents in the Gold Hill Community, Pick Handle Basin and the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort.  Bumping Lake is also under a Level 3 evacuation.

Level 3 is a “Go” situation as current conditions could pose immediate threats to life and safety. Residents might not be allowed to return until conditions are safe.

There is a public meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 5, from 6:30 to 7 p.m. at the Nile Valley Community Church (60 Bedrock Lane in Naches).  Fire officials and local cooperators will provide an overview of fire activity and field questions from the public. 

NORSE PEAK FIRE (18,822 acres): Growth occurred on both sides of the Norse Peak fire pushing west over the Pacific Crest Trail and threatening Crystal Mountain Ski resort and nearby communities. To the east, the fire crossed the eastern wilderness boundary north of Hell’s Crossing. Spotting occurred in the southern region of the fire with increased fire activity along State Road 410.  Structure protection personnel installed hose lays in the Sleepy Hollow, American River and Little Naches Summer tract areas and plumbed the facilities for sprinklers and will continue working toward the east. Work along 462, 410 and 1900 will continue today.

AMERICAN FIRE (500 acres): The American Fire grew to the south threatening the Bumping Lake area. The southeastern portion of the American Fire crossed Kettle Creek with intense activity, however, south/southeast winds forced the fire back into itself, slowing progress. The fire moved toward Bumping Lake forcing evacuations to residents and visitors. Firefighters will monitor for spots and work ahead of the fire growth as it backs downhill. Structure protection crews will work to plumb structures in Goose Prairie

CLOSURES CLOSURES: In Pierce County, Crystal Mountain Blvd and State Route 410 between mile posts 66 to 69, and in Yakima County, 70 to 89. Area closed is from Chinook Pass to Bumping River Road.

The 1900 or Little Naches Road is closed at the intersection of 1900 and 1902. Kaner Flat and Little Naches campgrounds and the Little Naches Summer Home tract remain open.

Bumping River Road and the trails north of the road are closed to access. Facilities and amenities along the road to the lake such as Goose Prairie, the Bumping Lake Marina, Chinook Outfitters, etc. are closed.

The Pacific Crest Trail is closed from Chinook Pass to Government Meadow.

The latest Forest Closure Order is in place for the fire area and complete details can be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/okawen/alerts-notices.

EVACUATIONS: In Yakama County, Little Naches Camp Ground, Naches Cabins and Kaner Flat Campground are at a Level 1 Evacuation. Residents are warned of a potential threat to the area and be prepared for possible evacuations.

All facilities along Bumping River Road and the 1900 Road up to Kaner Flat Campground and the 410 corridor from mile post 69 to 89 are under a Level 3 Evacuation Notice. This means residents are to evacuate immediately. People under Level 3 notifications should evacuate, taking important files, medications, and personal property.