CHELAN COUNTY, Wash. — Two large wildfires that broke out in September are still burning in central Washington and prompting evacuations on Sunday afternoon, according to Chelan County Emergency Management.
As of 1:30 p.m. on October 5, Level 3 (GO NOW), Level 2 (GET SET) and Level 1 (GET READY) evacuations are in place for both the roughly 40,165-acre ‘Lower Surgarloaf’ wildfire burning 12 miles north of Leavenworth and the roughly 38,592-acre ‘Labor Mountain’ wildfire burning 10 miles north of Cle Elum.
According to CCEM, lightning strikes ignited both fires and crews of over 1,300 fire personnel are working to control the flames.
As of Sunday afternoon, the Lower Sugarloaf fire is 55% contained and the Labor Mountain fire is 7% contained.
Over the weekend, CCEM reported that helicopters dropped over 150,000 gallons of water on the Labor Mountain fire and crews worked to clear unconsumed fuels from near the Lower Sugarloaf fire.
Washington State Patrol said wildfire conditions near Blewett Pass/US-97 will be reassessed Monday, October 6 to determine if the pass can be reopened. The pass has been closed due to the wildfires since September 21.
Fire officials will hold a community meeting on Monday, October 6 at Cashmere Middle School (300 Tigner Rd, Cashmere, WA) at 7 p.m. to present updates on both wildfires and respond to questions. The meeting will also be livestreamed and posted afterward on Facebook.
People in the region should expect smoky conditions and sensitive groups should take extra precautions against poor air quality.
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