Pasayten's Methow Valley Bulletin Board

East face of Virginia Ridge from Andy Hovers place
Michael Chiu
On fire watch tonight. Sleeping in Nomex and visually scanning Virginia Ridge every hour, on the hour. Headlamp beam in the darkness will tell me if there is ash fall and potential firebrands. Comforting to see brush trucks and fire dept vehicles slowly creeping along in the darkness looking, listening and smelling. Headlights near Grizzly and on Gunn Ranch.
Winds are light and down valley unlike earlier this evening when it was blowing hard on the ridge line. Fire made a run to the crest of Virginia Ridge. Hope to see stars again tonight which would indicate a northerly wind keeping spotting and any advancing south of the ridgeline.
Steve Mitchell

Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires
Evening Update

July 23, 2021 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
Fire Information Line - Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires: 509-557-0740 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm)
Winthrop, WA — Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires are burning on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in very steep and rocky terrain in heavy down fuels.
Cedar Creek Fire The fire has extended east of Lucky Jim Bluff and continues to move to the southeast along Virginian Ridge. The fire was active along State Route 20 today. Firefighters will continue preparations of dozer line along the base of the foothills to the west of State Route 20 working south of Wolf Creek towards Thompson Ridge area to the north and west. Contingency lines are being prepared along the valley bottom to the south. An additional strike team of engines (5 engines) arrived today to assist with structure protection along State Route 20.
In the northeast corner, crews patrolled the burnout operation conducted the day before and tied hand line into Highway 20 to secure this portion of the line. The northern and western flanks showed minimal growth during the day.
The strategy of containment is to use indirect tactics and construct containment lines in areas with a high probability of success. The objective is to keep the fire in the higher elevations above the valley and away from private property. The Cedar Creek fire is estimated at 20,806 acres with 11% containment.
Delancy Fire The fire had minimal growth today and is expected to continue to creep and smolder in steep, rocky, sparsely vegetated terrain and remains unstaffed due to the rugged terrain and scarce resource availability. Fire managers are evaluating values and risks.
Containment opportunities are being actively scouted on the east side up Lost Creek Road. The fire is being monitored by aircraft. The estimated size of this fire is approximately 221 acres.
Resources for additional information:
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MazamaFires2021
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7655/
Smoke Blog: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
Email: 2021.cedarcreek@firenet.gov
Highway Information: https://www.wsdot.com/traffic/trafficalerts/default.asp
Evacuations: https://www.okanogancounty.org/.../emer ... /index.php Methow Conservancy (Wildfire Preparedness): https://methowconservancy.org/discover/fire- prep-recovery%20
Wildfire Ready Neighbors (House Assessments): https://wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/
Resources: Total personnel - 501 : 3 - type 1 hotshot crews, 2 - type 2 IA hand crews, 4 - type 2 hand crews, 2 - camp crews, 4 - type 1 (heavy) helicopters, 1 - type 2 (medium) helicopter, 2 - type 3 (light) helicopters, 35 - engines, 2 - dozers, 10 - water tenders, 1 - masticator, 1 - skidgens, 3 - excavators, 4 - skidders, 1- feller buncher and 147 overhead.
Closures:
For the safety of the firefighters and aircraft fighting these fires, a temporary flight restriction (TFR) has been placed over the area. Please consult the “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) for specifics. Wildfires are a “No Drone Zone” and any drones sighting in a TFR will immediately ground aerial firefighting resources and delay suppression actions.
State Route 20 (North Cascades Highway) remains closed at milepost 185 (7 miles west of Winthrop) to milepost 165 to all traffic due to fire activity.
The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has implemented a Fire Emergency Area Closure as of July 15, 2021. The Closure includes facilities, roads, and trails. The Closure may be viewed in its entirety at the “Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires 2021” Facebook page.
The Forest Service Fire Emergency Area Closure is separate from the Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) closure of portions of State Route 20 and may change or be lifted at different times depending on operational needs. WSDOT is working closely with the Forest Service and Okanogan County to identify where fire activity and firefighting operations warrant closure.
Evacuation Information: The current Okanogan County Emergency Management Office (OECM) evacuation notices remain in place. The Okanogan County Emergency Management continues to reevaluate evacuation levels. For the most up to date evacuation levels, see the OCEM’s website above. Residents entering Evacuation Level 3 areas need to slow down and watch for firefighters and equipment in roadways.
Weather: There were northwesterly winds today along the Highway 20 corridor into the Valley. Humidity was above 20% in the valleys and up to 30% on the ridges. Winds were 8-12 mph with gusts to 20 mph in the Valley. Dryness, cool temperatures and downslope/down valley evening breezes will continue overnight.
Air Quality: The west wind component overnight resulted in clearer skies this morning. However, Mazama, Winthrop and Twisp experienced periods of unhealthy and hazardous smoke conditions today with degraded air quality in the Okanogan Valley including Tonasket, Conconully, Omak and Okanogan. When smoke is present, motorists should reduce speed and turn on headlights.
Fire Restrictions: Campfire restrictions are in effect. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including developed campgrounds and congressionally designated Wilderness — call local ranger district offices for moreinformation. https://tinyurl.com/yby4oysq
This incident is being managed by Northwest Incident Management Team 8.


Cub Creek 2 Fire
Evening Update

July 23, 2021
Click here for a shareable PDF of this update: https://drive.google.com/.../1rPT7tH.../view...
Fire Information Line – (509)-593-0574 (8:00 am to 9:00 pm)
The fire is burning on Okanogan County Fire District 6 and Washington Department of Natural Resources protected lands and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
The Cub Creek 2 Fire is estimated at 40,877 acres with 10% containment.
Today’s clear air and higher temperatures brought an increase in activity to some areas of the fire but also allowed firefighters to get a better look at the fire from above and utilize aircraft to aid in suppression efforts.
The fire is split into east and west flanks, both of which are moving in the northern section toward previously burned areas from the Mcleod and Tripod fires and away from homes and structures. There are also additional areas of heat on both the southeastern and southwestern flanks. West winds and low humidity will persist as well as clear skies, leading to a potential increase in fire activity. The fire remains active along Road 52. Crews and heavy equipment have been working aggressively to establish control lines, as well as tie them into completed control lines.
Local resource advisors will continue to provide input to protect natural and historical values at risk.
Residents will continue to see smoke and smoldering or creeping fire behavior near homes but personnel are actively monitoring those areas and the heel of the fire nearest the Chewuch River drainage. This is where firefighters have gained the most containment. Please only call 911 if flare-ups occur near structures.
Evacuation Information: The Okanogan County Emergency Management (OCEM) evacuations for the Chewuch River drainage remain in effect. Please consult OCEM information resources at okanogancounty.org for current evacuations. Residents leaving Evacuation Level 3 areas should be extremely cautious, drive slowly, and watch for firefighters and firefighting equipment on the roadway.
Resources for additional information:
StoryMap Link: https://arcg.is/1euzWj
Inciweb Page: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7675/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CubCreek2Fire2021
Smoke Blog: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
Email: 2021.cubcreek2@firenet.gov
Highway Information: https://www.wsdot.com/traffic/traffical ... fault.aspx
Evacuations: https://www.okanogancounty.org/.../emer ... /index.php
Methow Conservancy (Wildfire Preparedness): https://methowconservancy.org/discover/ ... ecovery%20
Wildfire Ready Neighbors (House Assessments): https://wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/
Resources: Total personnel–334; 5-type 2 initial attack hand crews, 9-type 2 hand crews, 4- heavy helicopters, 2-light lift helicopter, 21-engines, 4-dozer, 6-water tenders, and 29 overhead.
Closures: A new Forest Area Emergency Closure has been issued by the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest which closes the use of multiple roads, campgrounds, and trails. Please see the enclosed links to the Forest Closure Page. https://bit.ly/3zsRtuw and map: https://bit.ly/3wZ2y50 The documents are also available on Inciweb and Facebook.
A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place over the fire area. Please consult the “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) for specifics. Wildfires are a “No Drone Zone” and any drones sighting in a TFR will immediately ground aerial firefighting resources and delay suppression actions.
Weather: The region continued to experience marginal humidity recoveries. Tonight's temperatures will be in the low 70's, with poor relative humidity recoveries. Winds will be less active. between 5-10 mph along the ridge tops. Tomorrow will be another warm and dry day, with relative humidities in the low 18-25%
Air Quality: Please monitor the air quality on the incident FB page above and the WA Smoke Blog https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/ and take appropriate actions. All vehicle traffic is advised to travel with lights on for safety.
Fire Restrictions: Campfire restrictions are in effect. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including developed campgrounds and congressionally designated Wilderness — call local ranger district offices for more information. https://tinyurl.com/yby4oysq

Cub Creek 2 Fire
Evening Update
July 23, 2021

Video evening update: https://www.facebook.com/CubCreek2Fire2 ... 3408050800


Click here for a shareable PDF of this update: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rPT7tH ... Eih_z/view
Fire Information Line – (509)-593-0574 (8:00 am to 9:00 pm)
The fire is burning on Okanogan County Fire District 6 and Washington Department of Natural Resources protected lands and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
The Cub Creek 2 Fire is estimated at 40,877 acres with 10% containment.
Today’s clear air and higher temperatures brought an increase in activity to some areas of the fire but also allowed firefighters to get a better look at the fire from above and utilize aircraft to aid in suppression efforts.
The fire is split into east and west flanks, both of which are moving in the northern section toward previously burned areas from the Mcleod and Tripod fires and away from homes and structures. There are also additional areas of heat on both the southeastern and southwestern flanks. West winds and low humidity will persist as well as clear skies, leading to a potential increase in fire activity. The fire remains active along Road 52. Crews and heavy equipment have been working aggressively to establish control lines, as well as tie them into completed control lines.
Local resource advisors will continue to provide input to protect natural and historical values at risk.
Residents will continue to see smoke and smoldering or creeping fire behavior near homes but personnel are actively monitoring those areas and the heel of the fire nearest the Chewuch River drainage. This is where firefighters have gained the most containment. Please only call 911 if flare-ups occur near structures.
Evacuation Information: The Okanogan County Emergency Management (OCEM) evacuations for the Chewuch River drainage remain in effect. Please consult OCEM information resources at okanogancounty.org for current evacuations. Residents leaving Evacuation Level 3 areas should be extremely cautious, drive slowly, and watch for firefighters and firefighting equipment on the roadway.
Resources for additional information:
StoryMap Link: https://arcg.is/1euzWj
Inciweb Page: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7675/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CubCreek2Fire2021
Smoke Blog: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
Email: 2021.cubcreek2@firenet.gov
Highway Information: https://www.wsdot.com/traffic/traffical ... fault.aspx
Evacuations: https://www.okanogancounty.org/.../emer ... /index.php
Methow Conservancy (Wildfire Preparedness): https://methowconservancy.org/discover/ ... ecovery%20
Wildfire Ready Neighbors (House Assessments): https://wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/
Resources: Total personnel–334; 5-type 2 initial attack hand crews, 9-type 2 hand crews, 4- heavy helicopters, 2-light lift helicopter, 21-engines, 4-dozer, 6-water tenders, and 29 overhead.
Closures: A new Forest Area Emergency Closure has been issued by the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest which closes the use of multiple roads, campgrounds, and trails. Please see the enclosed links to the Forest Closure Page. https://bit.ly/3zsRtuw and map: https://bit.ly/3wZ2y50 The documents are also available on Inciweb and Facebook.
A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place over the fire area. Please consult the “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) for specifics. Wildfires are a “No Drone Zone” and any drones sighting in a TFR will immediately ground aerial firefighting resources and delay suppression actions.
Weather: The region continued to experience marginal humidity recoveries. Tonight's temperatures will be in the low 70's, with poor relative humidity recoveries. Winds will be less active. between 5-10 mph along the ridge tops. Tomorrow will be another warm and dry day, with relative humidities in the low 18-25%
Air Quality: Please monitor the air quality on the incident FB page above and the WA Smoke Blog https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/ and take appropriate actions. All vehicle traffic is advised to travel with lights on for safety.
Fire Restrictions: Campfire restrictions are in effect. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including developed campgrounds and congressionally designated Wilderness — call local ranger district offices for more information. https://tinyurl.com/yby4oysq

Progressing on Virginia Ridge...

Michael Chiu
Methow Valley Fire Information

2:47 PM Friday - Cedar Creek Fire from Cottonwood Meadows (Wolf Crk Rd)
Fire made a run toward the crest of Virginia Ridge this afternoon around 2:30-3:45. CH-47 Chinook was making repeated runs to cool the front of the fire and descending below the ridge line for only about 10 seconds before reappearing (visible in time lapse). An indication of how close the flame front or spotting was to the ridge crest. A Bell 206 Jet Ranger was pressed into service too with a baby bucket. Winds appeared confused with plume swinging from ESE to NE. No significant fire brands or ash fall yet near the end of the paved section of Wolf Creek RD @ Green RD.

https://www.facebook.com/michael.chiu.5 ... 124718885/
Note: You may have to be a member of the facebook group to see the video

Caltopo MODIS/VIIRS sensors showing some fire growth activity in eastern flank of Cedar Creek fire...

The Cub Creek 2 Fire is a bit more active this afternoon with more heat and sun. A small section has crossed Pebble Creek and firefighters are working it with aircraft.

The Cabin Creek Drainage in Division P, near Cup Pass on the 101 Road.

List of links to important information for each fire...

https://pasayten.com/bb/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=70

7/23 11:30am... Spotter plane and helicopter working Cub Creek fire... Buck Lake area...


CIIMT1 Branch Kerri Gilliland filmed an operational flight of the eastern flank of the Cub Creek Fire this morning
https://www.facebook.com/CubCreek2Fire2 ... 5018473362

Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires

Morning Update
July 23, 2021
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
Northwest Incident Management Team 8 will continue to manage the Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires. California Incident Management Team 1 has assumed management of the Cub Creek 2 Fire this morning.
Fire Information Line - Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires: 509-557-0740 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm)
Winthrop, WA — Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires are burning on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in very steep and rocky terrain in heavy down fuels.
Cedar Creek Fire is estimated at 20,806 acres and 11% contained. Yesterday, the fire had backed down for approximately two miles to the prepared dozer line along the base of the mountain. Burnout operations were conducted in locations where fuels remained to bring the fire from Lucky Jim Bluff to the dozer line. Firefighters will focus on mopping up hot spots to secure the eastern line. Once the inversion lifts, aerial resources will drop water to decrease fire activity and spread as needed on the southern portion of the fire. Firefighters continued to prepare and open up additional dozer and hand line along the base of the foothills west of State Route 20 from Early Winters area south towards Gobblers Knob. From Gobblers Knob, crews plan to reopen previous dozer line from prior fires across Thompson Ridge.
Engine strike teams and local resources, including Okanogan County Fire District 6, are providing structure protection to residences along Highway 20 and adjacent areas impacted by the Cedar Creek Fire.
The northern portion of the fire continued to slowly back down towards Highway 20. Firefighters tied in the northeastern portion of the fire at the confluence of Cedar Creek and Early Winters Creek into State Route 20. Firefighters continued to monitor the highway as the fire backs down as multiple ambers crossed the road yesterday and were quickly extinguished. The western portion of the fire in Silverstar Creek area continues to slowly push up the drainage into very steep, rocky country.
The strategy of containment is to use indirect tactics and construct containment lines in areas with a high probability of success. The objective is to keep the fire in the higher elevations above the valley and away from values at risk.
Delancy Fire The fire continues to creep and smolder in steep, rocky, sparsely vegetated terrain and remained unstaffed due to the rugged terrain. Fire managers continue to evaluate for values and risks. Containment opportunities are being scouted on the east side up Lost Creek Road. The fire is being monitored by aircraft. The estimated size of this fire is approximately 221 acres.
Resources for additional information:
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MazamaFires2021
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7655/
Smoke Blog: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
Email: 2021.cedarcreek@firenet.gov
Highway Information: https://www.wsdot.com/traffic/traffical ... fault.aspx
Evacuations: https://www.okanogancounty.org/.../emer ... /index.php
Methow Conservancy (Wildfire Preparedness): https://methowconservancy.org/discover/ ... ecovery%20
Wildfire Ready Neighbors (House Assessments): https://wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/
Resources: Total personnel – 519 : 2 – type 1 hotshot crews, 2 – type 2 IA hand crews, 5 - type 2 hand crews, 2 - camp crews, 3 – type 1 (heavy) helicopters, 2 – type 3 helicopters, 30- engines, 2 - dozers, 16 - water tenders, 1 - masticator, 2 - skidgens, and 148 overhead.
Closures:
For the safety of the firefighters and aircraft fighting these fires, a temporary flight restriction (TFR) has been placed over the area. Please consult the “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) for specifics. Wildfires are a “No Drone Zone” and any drones sighting in a TFR will immediately ground aerial firefighting resources and delay suppression actions.
State Route 20 (North Cascades Highway) remains closed at milepost 185 (7 miles west of Winthrop) to milepost 165 to all traffic due to fire activity.
The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has issued an expanded Fire Emergency Area Closure as of July 22, 2021. The Closure includes facilities, roads, and trails. The Closure may be viewed in its entirety at the “Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires 2021” Facebook page.
The Forest Service Fire Emergency Area Closure is separate from the Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) closure of portions of State Route 20 and may change or be lifted at different times depending on operational needs. WSDOT is working closely with the Forest Service and Okanogan County to identify where fire activity and firefighting operations warrant closure.
Evacuation Information: The Okanogan County Emergency Management (OCEM) continues to reevaluate evacuation levels. For the most up to date evacuation levels see the OCEM’s website above. Residents entering Evacuation Level 3 areas need to slow down and watch for firefighters and equipment in roadways.
Weather: This morning will be cloudy with smoke. Northwest winds will be 5-10 mph in the morning decreasing to 8-12 mph in the afternoon. Gusts to 20 mph in the Methow Valley. Temperatures will be 80-87 in the valley and 65-75 on the ridges
Air Quality: Smokey conditions persisted most of the day with levels reaching unhealthy levels in the Winthrop area. Communities further down valley also experienced unhealthy smoke conditions including down into the Okanogan Valley. Tonasket and Omak experienced unhealthy air throughout the day. Oroville received heavy smoke from Canada and the Methow Valley.
Fire Restrictions: Campfire restrictions are in effect. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including developed campgrounds and congressionally designated Wilderness — call local ranger district offices for more information. https://tinyurl.com/yby4oysq
This incident is being managed by Northwest Incident Management Team 8.
-End

Cub Creek 2 Fire Morning Update July 23, 2021

Fire Information Line – (509)-593-0574 (8:00 am to 9:00 pm)
The fire is burning on Okanogan County Fire District 6 and Washington Department of Natural Resources protected lands and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
Winthrop, WA — California Incident Management Team 1 has assumed management of the Cub Creek 2 Fire as of 0600 this morning. Northwest Incident Management Team 8 will continue to manage the Cedar Creek Fire. The Cub Creek 2 Fire is estimated at 38,671 acres with 5% containment.
Overnight the fire burned actively because of poor relative humidity recoveries in the upper elevations and low fuel moistures.
The fire remains split into east and west arms and backing downslope towards the Chewuch River. Firefighting efforts are focused on using terrain features and reinforcing existing containment lines. Conditions and fuels remain dry, with 25 – 30% recoveries, which will affect fire growth because of the westerly winds. Along the 8-Mile road, the fire continues to move across ridge tops. The easterly perimeter of the fire is showing heat with the infrared, which will be the focus for crews and aviation resources. Adjacent to Road 52 the fire remains active and is now approaching Road 52. Crews and heavy equipment will be working aggressively today to establish control lines, as well as tie established control lines into (Division P, Division U, and DIV T) region.
Local resource advisors will continue to provide input to protect natural and historical values at risk.
Please only call 911 if flare-ups occur near structures.
Evacuation Information: The Okanogan County Emergency Management (OCEM) evacuations for the Chewuch River drainage have been reevaluated and remain in effect. Please consult OCEM information resources for current evacuations. Residents leaving Evacuation Level 3 areas should be extremely cautious, drive slowly, and watch for firefighters and firefighting equipment on the roadway.
Resources for additional information: StoryMap Link: https://arcg.is/1euzWj
Inciweb Page: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7675/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CubCreek2Fire2021 Smoke Blog: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
Email: 2021.cubcreek2@firenet.gov
Highway Information: https://www.wsdot.com/traffic/traffical ... fault.aspx Evacuations: https://www.okanogancounty.org/.../emer ... /index.php Methow Conservancy (Wildfire Preparedness): https://methowconservancy.org/discover/ ... ecovery%20
Wildfire Ready Neighbors (House Assessments): https://wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/
Resources: Total personnel–334; 5-type 2 initial attack hand crews, 9-type 2 hand crews, 4- heavy helicopters, 2-light lift helicopter, 21-engines, 4-dozer, 6-water tenders, and 29 overhead.
Closures:
A new Forest Area Emergency Closure has been issued by the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest which closes use of multiple roads, campgrounds, and trails. Please see the enclosed links to the Forest Closure Page. https://bit.ly/3zsRtuw and map: https://bit.ly/3wZ2y50 The documents are also available on Inciweb and Facebook.
A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place over the fire area. Please consult the “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) for specifics. Wildfires are a “No Drone Zone” and any drones sighting in a TFR will immediately ground aerial firefighting resources and delay suppression actions.
Weather:
Last night, the region continued to experience marginal humidity recoveries. Today, temperatures will be between 82 – 85 degrees, with winds increasing this afternoon and evening. The upper elevation in Cub Creek will experience winds out of the northwest reaching 15– 20 MPH this evening along the ridge tops. Today will be another dry and warm day, with relative humidity’s in the low 18 - 25%.
Air Quality: Please monitor the air quality on the incident FB page above and the WA Smoke Blog https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/ and take appropriate actions. All vehicle traffic is advised to travel with lights on for safety.
Fire Restrictions: Campfire restrictions are in effect. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including developed campgrounds and congressionally designated Wilderness — call local ranger district offices for more
information. https://tinyurl.com/yby4oysq
-End-

Morning briefings... 7/23

Cedar/Delancy...
https://www.facebook.com/MazamaFires202 ... 4361692804


Cub Creek...
https://www.facebook.com/CubCreek2Fire2 ... 8976248079

Cub Creek Fire Story Map... Check this out!!!

https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/f7 ... 25092e032f

Ray Peterson
Question... Is there a limiting budget amount for the air resources that has to be managed?


Cub Creek 2 Fire-2021 Incident Team Response

Air resource use on the fire is determined by safety conditions (such as smoke and visibility), availability of aircraft and, most importantly, what the need is to support firefighters on the ground. There is not a set aircraft budget cap on fire incidents. Keep in mind that air tankers and helicopters alone don’t put fires out; aircraft in combination with crews on the ground contain the fire. Currently, Cedar Creek and Cub Creek 2 fires have several helicopters assigned to the incidents that have been actively working in coordination with crews on both fires.

Caltopo MODIS/VIIRS fire activity map for 7/23 at 7am...
(note that some of the red hot spots can actually be part of the smoke plume)

https://caltopo.com/map.html#ll=48.5049 ... a=modis_mp

VERY smoky in the Valley this morning... 742 at our house!!!

Smoke Outlook for 7/23 - 7/24
North Central Washington
Cedar Creek, Delancy, Cub Creek 2
Smoke
Mazama may have periods of unhealthy air in the afternoon. Unhealthy to hazardous conditions will prevail in Winthrop with periods of clearing in the late morning. Twisp may have unhealthy air to mid morning, then clearing. Communities further down valley will clear earlier. Omak may experience unhealthy air primarily in the afternoon. Smoke from Canada will result in unhealthy air in Oroville and Tonasket in the early morning. Smoke may intrude into the Chelan airshed this afternoon.
Health
Stay indoors as much as possible while air quality is unhealthy. If you don’t have an air purifier or an HVAC system, create a clean room in your house with a box fan and filter. Monitor the Purple Air Website, or the Fire and Smoke website to find areas with cleaner air in your vicinity. Consider travelling down valley for some fresh air.

Infrared map of Cedar Creek and Delancy fires near Mazama, WA, July 23, 2021.


Infrared heat detection map of Cub Creek 2 fire perimeter, July 23, 2021. The fire in the Methow Valley began July16 five miles north of Winthrop WA,

Clean Air Methow is a great source for air quality and public health protection from wildfire smoke. Go to www.Cleanairmethow.org for more information.

N95 masks are available to the public at the following locations:
· Twisp Town Hall 118 S Glover St, Twisp, WA 98856
· Winthrop Town Hall 206 Riverside Ave, Winthrop, WA 98862
· Aero Methow Rescue Services 1005 WA-20, Twisp, WA 98856
· Room One 315 N Lincoln St, Twisp, WA 98856
· Mazama Store 50 Lost River Rd, Mazama, WA 98833

Air purifiers may be available to Methow Valley residents in need. Contact cleanair@mvcitizens.org
A box fan filter kit includes a household box fan, merv-13 filter, and bungee cord. When used appropriately a box fan filter can drastically improve your indoor air quality. Please see this video on how to setup and use a box fan filter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qr1Aj6Di7w&t=2s
If you must be outside in heavy smoke, an N95 mask is essential. Cloth masks provide very little protection from wildfire smoke. It’s important to know what masks work, how to get a good fit, and considerations for children.
To learn more about how to protect your health and access clean air during times of poor air quality conditions, see Clean Air Methow’s Smoke Ready Checklist (https://www.cleanairmethow.org/smoke-ready-checklist) and these recommendations from the Washington Department of Health9https://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/ ... ading49516)

UW Atmospheric Sciences 72 hours wind speed and direction forecast model for north central WA...

https://a.atmos.washington.edu/~ovens/w ... wssfc+///3

Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires
Evening Update
July 22, 2021
Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
Northwest Incident Management Team 8 will continue to manage the Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires. California Incident Management Team 1 will assume command of the Cub Creek 2 Fire on Friday at 0600.
Fire Information Line - Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires: 509-557-0740 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm)
Winthrop, WA — Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires are burning on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in very steep and rocky terrain in heavy down fuels.
Cedar Creek Fire The Cedar Creek Fire is estimated at 18,634 acres and 11% contained. Winds today were out of the west flowing down valley. Today, firefighters used Type 1 (heavy) helicopters and other aerial resources to decrease fire activity and spread on the southern portion of the fire; however, heavy smoke in the morning hours caused a delay in the start of air operations. Firefighters continued to prepare and open up additional dozer and hand line along the base of the foothills west of State Route 20 from Early Winters area south towards Gobblers Knob. From Gobblers Knob, crews plan to reopen previous dozer line from prior fires across Thompson Ridge. Reduced west wind intensity resulted in slower fire spread; however, the fire remained active due to extremely dry fuels and low relative humidity.
Engine strike teams and local resources, including Okanogan County Fire District 6, are providing structure protection to residences along Highway 20 and adjacent areas impacted by the Cedar Creek Fire.
The northern portion of the fire continued to slowly back down towards Highway 20. Firefighters tied in the northeastern portion of the fire at the confluence of Cedar Creek and Early Winters Creek into State Route 20. Firefighters continued to monitor as fire backed down the northern ridgeline of Sandy Butte. The western portion of the fire in Silverstar Creek area continued to slowly push up the drainage.
The strategy of containment is to use indirect tactics and construct containment lines in areas with a high probability of success. The objective is to keep the fire in the higher elevations above the valley and away from values at risk.
Delancy Fire The fire has moved over Delancy Ridge and continued to creep and smolder in steep, rocky, sparsely vegetated terrain and remained unstaffed due to the rugged terrain. Fire managers continue to evaluate for values and risks. Containment opportunities are being scouted on the east side up Lost Creek Road. The fire is being monitored by aircraft. The estimated size of this fire is approximately 219 acres.
Resources for additional information:
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MazamaFires2021
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7655/
Smoke Blog: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
Email: 2021.cedarcreek@firenet.gov
Highway Information: https://www.wsdot.com/traffic/traffical ... fault.aspx
Evacuations: https://www.okanogancounty.org/.../emer ... /index.php
Methow Conservancy (Wildfire Preparedness): https://methowconservancy.org/discover/ ... ecovery%20
Wildfire Ready Neighbors (House Assessments): https://wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/
Resources: Total personnel – 524 : 2 – type 1 hotshot crews, 2 – type 2 IA hand crews, 5 - type 2 hand crews, 2 - camp crews, 3 – type 1 (heavy) helicopters, 2 – type 3 helicopters, 30- engines, 2 - dozers, 16 - water tenders, 1 - masticator, 2 - skidgens, and 150 overhead.
Closures:
For the safety of the firefighters and aircraft fighting these fires, a temporary flight restriction (TFR) has been placed over the area. Please consult the “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) for specifics. Wildfires are a “No Drone Zone” and any drones sighting in a TFR will immediately ground aerial firefighting resources and delay suppression actions.
State Route 20 (North Cascades Highway) remains closed at milepost 185 (7 miles west of Winthrop) to milepost 165 to all traffic due to fire activity.
The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has implemented a Fire Emergency Area Closure as of July 15, 2021. The Closure includes facilities, roads, and trails. The Closure may be viewed in its entirety at the “Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires 2021” Facebook page.
The Forest Service Fire Emergency Area Closure is separate from the Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) closure of portions of State Route 20 and may change or be lifted at different times depending on operational needs. WSDOT is working closely with the Forest Service and Okanogan County to identify where fire activity and firefighting operations warrant closure.
Evacuation Information: The Okanogan County Emergency Management (OCEM) continues to reevaluate evacuation levels. For the most up to date evacuation levels see the OCEM’s website above. Residents entering Evacuation Level 3 areas need to slow down and watch for firefighters and equipment in roadways.
Weather: Winds were lighter today but conditions remained very dry. Winds were predominately westerly and down valley with some isolated pockets of up slope winds. Smoke lingered for most of the day. Winds reached 6 to 10 mph by mid-afternoon. Temperatures were 70-75 in the valleys and around 82 in Mazama and there was no precipitation.
Air Quality: Smokey conditions persisted most of the day with levels reaching unhealthy levels in the Winthrop area. Communities further down valley also experienced unhealthy smoke conditions including down into the Okanogan Valley. Tonasket and Omak experienced unhealthy air throughout the day. Oroville received heavy smoke from Canada and the Methow Valley.
Fire Restrictions: Campfire restrictions are in effect. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including developed campgrounds and congressionally designated Wilderness — call local ranger district offices for more information. https://tinyurl.com/yby4oysq
This incident is being managed by Northwest Incident Management Team 8.
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Cub Creek 2 Fire
Evening Update
July 22, 2021
California Incident Management Team 1 will assume management of the Cub Creek 2 Fire tomorrow at 0600. A new telephone number for information will published. Northwest Incident Management Team 8 will continue to manage the Cedar Creek and Delancy Fires.
Fire Information Line – (541)-670-0812 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm) (NEW NUMBER TOMORROW MORNING)
The fire is burning on Okanogan County Fire District 6 and Washington Department of Natural Resources protected lands and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
Winthrop, WA — Cub Creek 2 – The fire is estimated at 38,671 acres with 5% containment. The fire is burning northward with lateral growth to the west and to a lesser degree to the east. Low intensity backing fire is moving downslope towards the Chewuch River on both east and west sides. Fire growth has been consistent for several operational periods with short runs creating increased fire activity especially on the west side of the fire. Firefighting efforts have benefited in areas where the fire has merged into past burned areas and areas that have received previous fuel treatments. The north and east sides of the fire have merged into old fire scars, slowing fire growth.
Fire line at the rear (south end) of the fire along the southern perimeter is holding and hand crews are using cold trailing techniques to prevent flare ups and reduce hot spots. The area southwest and west of the fire is a priority to manage fire movement in Sherwood Creek and Deer Creek. Aircraft will be used, if smoke conditions allow, to deliver water to support the work of firefighters in those areas. Forest Road 52 Road is being prepared to use as a containment line if necessary. Dozer and hand line is in place southeast of the fire but the terrain west of Ramsey Peak is a challenge. Use of Pebble Creek as well as other routes are being considered for containment lines.
Firefighting efforts are focused on using existing features and reinforcing containment lines.
Structure protection measures are in place, including hose lays and sprinklers.
Resource advisors with local expertise are providing input to firefighters to protect natural, cultural, and historic resources during firefighting operations.
Please only call 911 if flare-ups occur near structures.
Evacuation Information: The Okanogan County Emergency Management (OCEM) evacuations for the Chewuch River drainage have been reevaluated and remain in effect. Please consult OCEM information resources for current evacuations. Residents leaving Evacuation Level 3 areas should be extremely cautious, drive slowly, and watch for firefighters and firefighting equipment on the roadway.
Resources for additional information:
Inciweb page: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7675/
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CubCreek2Fire2021
Smoke Blog: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/
Email: 2021.cubcreek2@firenet.gov
Highway Information: https://www.wsdot.com/traffic/traffical ... fault.aspx
Evacuations: https://www.okanogancounty.org/.../emer ... /index.php
Methow Conservancy (Wildfire Preparedness): https://methowconservancy.org/discover/ ... ecovery%20
Wildfire Ready Neighbors (House Assessments): https://wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/
Resources: Total personnel–272, 3 initial attack crews, 6 type 2 hand crews, 3 heavy lift helicopters, 1 medium lift helicopter, 1 light lift helicopter, 20 engines, 4 dozers, 9 water tenders, and 26 overhead.
Closures:
An emergency Forest Closure Order has been issued by the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest which closes the fire area and multiple roads, campgrounds, and trails. Please see the incident’s Inciweb and Facebook pages for the document in its entirety. Please do not enter the closure area which is dangerous and will disrupt firefighting efforts.
A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place over the fire area. Please consult the “Notice to Airmen” (NOTAM) for specifics. Wildfires are a “No Drone Zone” and any drones sighting in a TFR will immediately ground aerial firefighting resources and delay suppression actions.
Weather: Lighter winds today slowed fire spread in areas but also aligned with the Chewuck River and caused some variable burning conditions.
Air Quality: Conditions today were similar to yesterday and air resources were able to fly, although delayed. Unhealthy to hazardous conditions may occur in the Upper Methow Valley east of Mazama from early morning to mid-afternoon. Communities further down valley may experience unhealthy air. Smoke has spilled over into the Okanogan Valley. Tonasket and Omak may experience unhealthy air throughout the day. Oroville is receiving heavy smoke from Canada and the Methow Valley. Chelan may start having hazy skies. Conditions should improve overnight. Smoke will return in the morning but should be better than today.
Fire Restrictions: Campfire restrictions are in effect. Campfires are prohibited throughout the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, including developed campgrounds and congressionally designated Wilderness — call local ranger district offices for more information. HTTPs://tinyurl.com/yby4oysq
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Firefighter Carl Golden on structure protection with Spokane County Fire District 3, Engine 30.
Photo credit: Firefighter Carson Brown


Past fuel treatments along the Chewuch River drainage near the Brevicomis cabins has helped lower fire intensity in this area. As you can see in this photo, the fire in this area is mostly a low intensity, ground fire backing towards the road similar to the effects of a prescribed fire. Firefighters are remaining vigilant in this area to maintain the progress made in structure protection.

Okanogan County Emergency Management has issued the following:

Four Level 2 Be Ready zones have been issued for the Winthrop area due to fire activity on the Cedar Creek Fire.
All other Evacuation Levels issued due to the Cedar Creek and Cub Creek Fires remain in affect.
Visit Okanogan County Advisory MAP to view the areas.
Level 2 Be Ready is not an immediate Evacuation, it is a Be Ready to Leave at a moments notice.
Areas are described below.

Level 2 (Be Ready) issued for the Pine Forest Development. (Name of Zone Pine Forest Development)

Level 2 (Be Ready) issued for the Moccasin Ranch area, which includes the area within, starting at Intersection of Twin Lakes Road and Wandling Road to the north on Twin Lakes Road to the Intersection of Patterson Lake Road then to Elbow Coulee Road directly to Dibble Lake. (Name of Zone Moccasin Ranch Area)

Level 2 (Be ready) issued for the Eastern area of the Wolf Creek Area starting at the Wolf Creek Bridge, east towards Winthrop along the Methow River to the Winthrop Fish Hatchery then south on Twin Lakes Road to Patterson Lake Road to the north end of Patterson Lake. (Name of Zone Eastern Wolf Creek)

Level 2 (Be ready) issued for the Twin Lakes Development area, which includes an area within, starting at the north end of Twin Lakes Road at the Winthrop Fish Hatchery Road, south on Twin Lakes Road to Wandling Road directly back to the Winthrop Fish Hatchery Road. (Name of Zone Twin Lakes Development)

Persons should be aware of their surroundings and take action if needed.
You must be prepared to leave at a moments notice.
Do not wait for door to door notification, take action if needed.
Level 2 (BE READY) is being issues due to the fire activity on the Cedar Creek Fire, Winthrop Washington.
Where to find official information:
WEB PAGE Map: https://arcg.is/1mD0nW0
OKANOGAN COUNTY ADVISORY MAP
OKANOGAN COUNTY EVACUATION LEVELS
Level 1 Advisory
Level 2 Be Ready
Level 3 Immediate Evacuation

Okanogan County Electric Coop...

July 22, 2021 – OPERATIONS UPDATE – CUB CREEK 2 FIRE & CEDAR CREEK FIRE

CUB CREEK 2 FIRE: OCEC crews worked through the week on the rebuild process for members affected by the Cub Creek 2 Fire that started on Friday, July 16th. All members on Cub Creek Rd and W Chewuch Rd up to the Cub Creek Rd junction had power restored on Saturday, July 17th. Approximately 62 members in the North Chewuch/8 Mile area are still without power due to fire damage to power poles and lines. Crews are close to completing all the repairs in this area. Final power restoration will happen after receiving confirmation from fire Incident Command that it is safe, as the area is still in the Level 3 Evacuation Zone.

CEDAR CREEK FIRE: OCEC has set the reclosers on the Mazama and Wolf Creek area lines to “non-reclose” as a part of our Wildfire Mitigation Plan.

Disabling reclosers, either in elevated fire risk or red-flag conditions, has the effect of both lengthening the duration and increasing the number of outages while minimizing the risk of fire. A recloser is an automatic high-voltage electric switch that operates much like a circuit breaker in your home. When the reclosers are set on “non-reclose” the breaker will operate/open and the line will be de-energized until OCEC crews can manually inspect the line for problems. Once the line is manually inspected and is confirmed all-clear, the line will be re-energized. This will possibly create longer, more frequent outages during these times.

The OCEC office is currently staffed Mon-Thurs 7am-5:30pm and our answering service is available for all after hours calls at (509) 996-2228.

Single helicopter working cub creek fire southwest of Buck lake