Tunnel Creek and Bear Gulch Fires Update
OLYMPIA, Wash., – Fire management officials continue to respond to the Tunnel Creek and Bear Gulch Fires on the east side of the Olympic National Forest.
Weather conditions, conducive to fire growth and smoke production, including dry easterly winds and lower relative humidity are expected to arrive this evening. Residents and visitors may notice an increase in smoke, especially near the Lake Cushman and Hood Canal area. The winds are forecast to subside by Tuesday evening.
Fire activity is expected to follow a pattern of increasing during warm, dry periods and decreasing during cooler, wetter conditions. This cycle is likely to continue until sustained fall rains fully extinguish the fire.
Tunnel Creek Fire:
- Size: 290 acres
- Cause: Lightning
- Containment:0%
On Sunday, the fire area received less than two-tenths of an inch of rain, moderating fire behavior in the short term. The fire continues to burn in a remote area of the Buckhorn Wilderness with very steep terrain. Firefighters continue to assess the feasibility of using aircraft for effective and successful suppression activities.
Bear Gulch Fire:
- Size: 10843 acres
- Cause: Human
- Containment:9%
On Sunday, the fire area received less than one-tenth of an inch of rain, moderating fire behavior in the short term. The fire continues to be active in the No-name drainage area. Aviation resources remain on standby to support fire suppression and structure protection efforts as needed in areas adjacent to Lake Cushman and within Olympic National Park.
Evacuation Levels: Homes in the area near Dry Creek Trail are in a Level 3 “GO” evacuation. This includes the Staircase Campground and areas across the causeway on the north side of Lake Cushman. Current evacuation information: https://www.facebook.com/masoncosheriff
Updates for both incidents will be communicated as notable events occur. For information regarding Forest recreation site closures visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/olympic
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