9/3/2018 Cougar Creek Fire Update

Cougar Creek, Lost and Bannock Lakes Fires Monday, September 3, 2018

Cougar Creek Fire: The fire spread was minimal on the north and northwestern side on Sunday as firefighters continued efforts to construct containment lines. Helicopters assisted by dropping foam in areas of steep terrain that are difficult to access on the northern fire perimeter. Containment along the western perimeter continues to improve, raising the containment to 55 percent. The southern and eastern areas of the fire are secure and repair work continues on roads and firelines. Gusty winds from the north and northwest are expected through midday on Monday and may impact fire behavior and the ability to use aircraft.

A small fire camp has been reestablished in Entiat in order to reduce travel and increase efficiency by placing firefighters near the east side of the fire due to the large amount of mop up, backhaul, and repair work needed on roads and firelines.

Lost Fire: The Lost Fire has been held at 80 acres. Containment lines are complete. The fire will continue to be monitored by air using infrared imagery and aerial reconnaissance.

Bannock Lakes Fire: The Bannock fire remains at 493 acres. This fire is creeping among rocky outcrops and isolated groups of timber in steep, inaccessible terrain. It is being monitored by infrared imagery and aerial reconnaissance. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT) is closed from Suiattle Pass to High Bridge. The PCT detour is from Suiattle Pass to Stehekin. More information is available at www.pcta.org.

Labor Day Weekend: Fire danger is extreme in the forest. Campfires are banned. Chainsaw use, as well as any equipment that might emit a spark, are also banned. Do not park in dry grass. Fire equipment may be working in unexpected locations along roads and surrounding fire areas. Please use caution and patience when fire vehicles are present.

Weather and Fire Behavior: Sunday was the warmest and driest day of the week. A dry cold front will push through the region Monday morning, bringing gusty west to northwest winds. Wind gusts near 35 mph will be possible. This could transport smoke into the area from the north. Winds will remain breezy through midday Monday then become light in the afternoon. Temperatures will be a few degrees cooler, and humidity will be higher.

Evacuations: The Chiwawa Loop Road area (including Shugart Flats and Chiwawa River Pines communities) is at a Level 1 “Get Ready” alert. The Entiat River Road from Mile Marker 16.5, north to its end is also under a Level 1 alert. For more information, call Chelan County Emergency Management at 509-667-6863, or visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CCSOEM .

Restrictions and Closures: The Entiat River Road, Chiwawa River Road, and most Forest Service campgrounds along these roads are now open. All trails connecting with the Chiwawa River Road are open. The Shady Pass Road #5900 is also open. Forest visitors are encouraged to view the interactive closure map: https://tinyurl.com/yb5zs737.