August 14 North Cascades Fires Update

Contact: Public Affairs Office

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. - Fire activity was minimal yesterday on the Border 2 Fire (estimated 14,336 acres total; 6,556 acres in the United States) due to an inversion with cloud cover with slight rain and hail. Aviation was limited due to poor air visibility and weather.

A portion of Hozomeen along the Silver Skagit Road south from the US/Canada border to the Hozomeen Creek area is contained (3.9% of the overall fire in the US) and remains in patrol status. Today crews will continue structure protection on critical values at risk south of the fire. A Type 3 helicopter is available for aerial support for reconnaissance and utilizing aerial delivered water when conditions safely allow.

Fire staff are monitoring the landscape for any new lightning starts following lightning storms across the area. Two small fires were reported yesterday, one has been called out, and the Stiletto Fire (estimated .01 acre) received several cycles of aerial delivered water yesterday. No smoke was seen yesterday evening and additional resources will work on suppression efforts today.

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

Closures: 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: A Red Flag Warning is in effect today from noon-9pm for lightning and gusty outflow winds. Isolated to scattered thunderstorms is possible across the area.

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