Single Publication

Ruby Fire Quick Facts

Size: 959 acres                           Location: North Cascades National Park, Ruby Mountain, Diablo, Washington

Containment: 0%                      Cause: Lightning/Natural

Start Date: August 9, 2024        Total Personnel: 50

Fire Information:

Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/wancp-ruby-fire Email: 2024.Ruby@firenet.gov

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ruby Fire/61563760546137

Phone: 1-360-208-8096

Current Status: The Ruby Fire produced more smoke yesterday than in recent days due to an increase in fire activity as a result of above average temperatures and lower relative humidity. Firefighters continue to implement structure protection plans on several key values at risk, while fire managers continue to monitor fire activity utilizing aircraft equipped with infrared. Cooler temperatures are expected earlier in the week, but are expected to climb to above average temperatures by Thursday.   

Planned Actions: Firefighters will continue to protect critical infrastructure, park campgrounds, trails, backcountry camps and other resources in preparation for possible fire growth. The Ruby Fire is a full suppression fire, and firefighters are utilizing strategies and tactics that provide the highest likelihood for success, while mitigating risks to firefighters and the public. The main objectives are protecting human life, minimizing damage to values at risk and limiting wildfire spread to the north and west.

Weather: A return to onshore flow will bring cooler and more moist air to the fire site on Monday. Additionally, there is a low (10-20%) chance for a few isolated thunderstorms near the fire site Monday afternoon and evening. Any storms that develop should be short-lived and contain limited rainfall, but the strongest storms could produce gusty winds, small hail, and lightning. Conditions remain cool on Tuesday before warming and drying back up into mid-week. Thursday currently looks to be the warmest and driest day of the week, through temperatures look to remain above average through the weekend.

Closures: There are multiple closures in place for public safety; Colonial Creek South Campground and boat launch, Thunder Arm south of Diablo Lake. For a full list of closures visit https://go.nps.gov/fireclosures

Smoke: Air quality is forecast to be GOOD on Monday and Tuesday https://www.airnow.gov/

Burning Restrictions: Campfires, the ignition of wood, briquettes, or any fuel in fire pits, fire pans and barbeque grills, are banned in all portions of North Cascades National Park Service Complex: North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. 

Drone Restrictions: Drones can seriously impact the safety of firefighting efforts, and operating drones within North Cascades National Park is prohibited, except with prior written approval from the superintendent. 

Cooperating Agencies & Tribes: National Park Service, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Seattle City Light, Whatcom County, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Dept. of Transportation. 

If you would like to sign up for our daily updates, please send an email to: 2024.Ruby@firenet.gov