August 7 North Cascades Fires Update

Contact: Public Affairs Office, [email protected]

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. - Yesterday there was minimal fire activity on the Border 2 Fire (estimated 6,983 acres) due to heavy smoke and atmospheric stability that moderated fire behavior. Heavy smoke has settled in the Ross Lake Area, limiting aviation support. A Type 3 helicopter is available for aerial support utilizing aerial delivered water when conditions safely allow.

Crews continue to mop up and patrol along the Silver Skagit Road. Fire progression continues to move south around Little Jackass Mountain. With fire movement to the south, firefighters began brush work and point protection on values at risk south of the fire. Preparation and partial structure wrap of Desolation Lookout was completed yesterday. A partial structure wrap allows communication and lookout operations to continue while conditions are safe to do so yet be prepared if the need may arise for a full structure wrap. Through the weekend firefighters will continue to mop up around Hozomeen and along the Silver Skagit Road and point protection on values at risk south of the fire. Additional area, trail, and camp closures are in effect today.

To sign up for Luna Fire updates email [email protected]. For additional information visit the Luna Fire inciweb page.

[NEW] Closures: Additional area, trail, and camp closures are in effect today for both the Luna and Border 2 Fires. Area, trail, and camp closures in place for public safety. For the full list of fire closures visit the park Fire Closures page.

Weather: Elevated fire weather continues through Friday. Cooler temperatures and cloud cover with no precipitation are expected over the weekend.

Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions are in effect beginning Monday, June 29. Campfires or the ignition of wood, briquettes, or any fuel in fire pits, fire pans, and barbeque grills, are banned in all portions of North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Gas or propane stoves, grills, or lanterns are permitted in campgrounds and wilderness areas for the use of cooking if there is no flammable material within three feet of the device.

Smoke Outlook: Smoke is present with hot and dry weather conditions and increased fire behavior, with a smoke layer settling over the general area. Take precautions when recreating outdoors when heavy smoke is present. Individuals who are sensitive to poor air quality or those with respiratory problems may want to limit outdoor activities. Air quality can change quickly. For current smoke information, visit: https://fire.airnow.gov.

Air Space Restrictions: A temporary flight restriction is in place for the fire area. Drones are prohibited in the area, especially during emergency fire response. If you fly, we can't. Every time a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area: http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.

nps.gov