Single Publication

Cougar Creek Fire Update for Monday July 22, 2024

KEY MESSAGE: 

An Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) is being utilized in the fire area to assist firefighters with infrared and mapping. Air operations continue to drop retardant and water to limit the progression of the fire and to secure the area around Grouse Flats. Further air resources were diverted to support firefighting efforts as activity increased in the afternoon. Morning smoke has generated visibility challenges, limiting aircraft availability. 

CURRENT STATUS:

The previous days spot fire has progressed into the West Fork of the Wenatchee Creek drainage and is moving towards Grouse Flats where crews are heavily engaged with point protection efforts.  Direct and indirect attack is being implemented and structure protection tactics are in place. A helibase was established in Anatone for better flight access to the fire area. Perimeter progression is expected to continue over the upcoming days due to limited access and extreme weather conditions.

FIRE BEHAVIOR AND WEATHER:

The fire is expected to progress uphill from the Wenatchee drainage and is heavily influenced by critical fire weather conditions, topography, fuel loading, and active fire behavior. An excessive heat warning remains through today. There is a small chance (less than 10%) of thunderstorms in the area, with lightning and wind gusts being the main concern. Hot conditions will continue, but elevated relative humidity could bring overall fire behavior down. 

EVACUATIONS AND CLOSURES: 

In Washington, Garfield County has established level 2 evacuations levels.  Please see evacuation notices on Garfield County Facebook page.  All other evacuation levels in Washington remain the same, including the extent of Grande Ronde Rd. In Oregon, a new level 2 evacuation is in effect for Wallowa County, including all of Grouse Flat from Bear Creek Rd north to the State boundary and the Garfield County lines to Grande Ronde River. Please see the evacuation notice from  Asotin County Sheriff and Asotin County Emergency Management . Grande Ronde Road is closed from Troy, Oregon to Highway 129 junction.