Single Publication

Resources: 306 Total Personnel | 4 Hand Crews | 15 Engines | 5 Water Tenders | 7 Helicopters

(Newhalem, Wash.) -- The Sourdough Fire started with a lightning strike on July 29 near Diablo in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area, 7 miles northeast of Newhalem. Efforts on the Sourdough Fire, approximately 5,997 acres with 12% containment, continue to show significant progress. Firefighting teams have protected communities, crucial highways, and essential infrastructure. Most of the fire growth remains located in the remote northern terrain. With no safe access, these terrains highlight the importance of a strategic approach to fire management.
 

Yesterday: With the anticipated east winds, resources were strategically positioned to monitor fire activity on the southwestern portion of the fire perimeter, and no significant flare-ups were observed. Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) detected heat above the tunnel on State Route 20 near mile marker 124. The fire continues to shed debris. Firefighters monitored, mopped up, and safely cleared these materials from the roadway. The small 1/10th acre fire found yesterday east of Newhalem continues to be monitored, showing no additional heat signatures or growth. Due to limited visibility from smoke, helicopters could not assist in the Sourdough area yesterday, however, they were able to provide support for initial attack action on a new fire start near Darrington, WA — the Huckleberry Flats Fire.

Today: Heat was detected in the upper part of the Sourdough Creek drainage, which will be a focal point for aerial suppression operations. To ensure comprehensive coverage and monitoring containment lines along State Route 20, ground crews will work alongside UAS (drones) to monitor and patrol the area.  Where the fire’s perimeter is secure, repair activities are underway.
 

Weather: Hot, dry and unstable atmospheric conditions continue today. A cold front will move through the area, bringing cooler temperatures and a slight chance of showers on Tuesday and Wednesday. Precipitation is expected to be minimal with limited effects on overall fire behavior.

Safety: Fire danger remains extremely high. The public can help prevent the next wildland fire by observing outdoor burning bans and avoiding other common ignition causes.

Smoke: Smoke from fires throughout the region is significantly affecting many communities. Information aboutcurrent conditions and a smoke forecast is located at: https://wasmoke.blogspot.com.
For information on how you can prepare for wildfire smoke, go to: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/wildfires/smoke.html and https://www.wildlandfiresmoke.net/smoke-ready

Closures and Evacuations: State Route 20 remains closed between milepost 120 (Newhalem) and milepost 171 (Silver Star Campground). Trail, area and camp closures are in effect; for more information, go to: https://www.nps.gov/noca/planyourvisit/fire-closures.htm