Highlights: Lightning storms that passed over the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest this past week ignited several wildfires in the Wenatchee River Ranger District. Smoke from the fires is highly visible in the Lake Wenatchee area, and recreationists are advised to stay away from the Little Wenatchee and White River Roads where these fires are burning. Aviation resources are utilizing and scooping from Lake Wenatchee; we ask water recreationists to please clear the area and stay away from these aircraft as they work.
Operations: Yesterday, windy conditions increased fire activity, prompting evacuation level increases for the White River Fire on Sears Creek Road (FS Road 6404). A Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command of the White River and Irving Peak Fires yesterday, August 13, 2022, at 6:00 A.M. The Irving Peak and White River Fires are approximately 4 miles apart but are being managed by the same team. On the White River Fire, crews are implementing contain, confine, and control strategies to stop fire progression to the east of the 6404 road and to the south of the Little Wenatchee River Road. This strategy means firefighters will use a combination of natural features and constructed fire lines to actively contain this wildfire. Firefighters are working on structure protection for properties along road 6404. Aviation resources are assigned to the incident, and fire managers actively utilize their intel to assess safe containment options as they coordinate with local, county, and state personnel. On the Irving Fire today, crews will be working to scout potential control lines and will begin structure protection along the Little Wenatchee Road (FS Road 6500).
Evacuations: Chelan County has issued a Level 3 evacuation (Go Now) for Sears Creek Road, White River Road is at a Level 2 (Be Prepared), and Little Wenatchee Road is at a Level 1 (Stay Alert). Emergency personnel are in the process of advising residents in the area. Five homes were evacuated from the Sears Creek Area.
Weather: Temperatures today will be around 77 degrees with west winds of 4 to 8 mph. A drying and warming trend will begin today, with winds expected to become lighter and temperatures warming into early next week.
Closures: An area closure is pending. It is recommended that the public avoid recreating in the Little Wenatchee and White River Road (FS Roads 6500 and 6400) areas. The Pacific Crest Trail is not affected by this fire.
Campfire restrictions: Campfires are not currently allowed anywhere within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Stage 2 Restrictions are now in effect for the entire forest, including campgrounds and wilderness areas.
