FIRE REPORT: Multiple Large Fires Burning in Washington State, Local Incidents Quickly Controlled

CHÉLAN —The largest wildfire burning in Washington as of Saturday afternoon was the Pioneer Fire, which had burned about 4,700 acres on the eastern shore of Lake Chelan near Cascade Creek backpacking campground.

Evacuation orders remained in effect in several areas near the fire at various levels. A Level 2 evacuation order is in effect from Flick Creek Campground south of Fir Creek, stating that people in the area should be prepared to evacuate. A Level 1 order, stating that people in the area should remain vigilant, was in effect from Flick Creek Campground to Safe Harbor. Level 1 included the Fourmile Creek camping area.

A news release from the U.S. Forest Service said nine aircraft and 557 personnel were on scene battling the fire. This includes personnel transporting firefighters across the lake by boat to access and gain control of the fire. The fire is considered 7% contained and was discovered on June 8. It is believed to have been man-made. An investigation is underway.

Firefighters continue to patrol areas of the fire perimeter that have structures to protect them.

The Gold Creek fire near Carlton was still raging Saturday. No evacuations had been ordered at the time, but firefighters advised people in the area to leave the area if they felt uncomfortable with the situation. However, the fire is 100% contained and firefighting personnel are on site to extinguish it and ensure it does not restart. The fire burned approximately 280 acres in steep, rugged terrain. The fire was reported on June 22 and is believed to have been caused by unspecified equipment used in the area.

Locally, fires in Grant and Adams counties remained small, with most remaining under 100 acres and firefighters able to respond quickly and control the fires. During the week of Independence Day, local fire agencies are asking the community to use extreme caution when using fireworks or going camping for the holiday .

According to InciWeb, several large fires have been reported in the Pacific Northwest. These include fires in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana.

According to airnow.gov, air quality in Grant and Adams counties was good Saturday. People with respiratory problems or allergies are encouraged to monitor air quality regularly and consult healthcare professionals with any questions.