Cougar Creek Fire Update for Saturday July 21, 2024

Yesterday, a spot fire crossed Wenatchee Creek in high elevation, north of residences, and continues to burn to the northwest. The spot fire occurred due to embers cast from one side of the valley to the other. Prompt response from aviation resources is being utilized to slow the progression of the spot fire to allow for on the ground resources to enhance fire mitigation efforts.  Night shift are utilizing ignition operations to build an anchor on the southwest flank to continue direct line construction.  Firefighter efforts have been successful on the southern half of Wenatchee Creek following Grande Ronde to Hanson Ridge aiding in establishing containing.

Fire operations are being supported by loaned Initial Attack Department of Natural Resources air assets including 2 air platforms, 5 helicopters and 3 air tankers. Control lines are being put in place to limit fire spread in the Wenatchee Creek area. Crews are establishing hose lays, attacking the fire directly, and building dozer lines. Structure protection continues and mopping up of hot spots is taking place in areas with diminished fire activity.

The fire is expected to be plume dominated, driven by wind circulation created by strong convection above the fire. There is a 10% chance of thunderstorms tonight in the area. This type of weather outlook generates extreme fire growth. Hot dry weather continues. Today will likely be the hottest of the week, with temperatures exceeding triple digits.

There are evacuation levels in effect, including the extent of Grande Ronde Rd in Washington state. Please see the evacuation notice from Asotin County Sheriff and Asotin County Emergency Management. The Grande Ronde Road is closed from Troy, Oregon to the Highway 129 junction.