August 2 North Cascades Fires Update

Contact: Public Affairs Office

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. - Despite cooler temperatures, fire behavior increased on the Border 2 Fire and the Luna Fire due to elevated fire weather. Cooler temperatures are expected today before the return of hot and dry weather on Monday with predicted elevated fire weather beginning Tuesday.

The Border 2 Fire (approx. 5,028 acres) received approximately .10 inches of precipitation this morning moderating fire conditions following yesterday's increased fire behavior. Firefighters continue structure protection operations in the Hozomeen area as the fire slowly progresses towards the south and west. Fire managers are coordinating and in tight communications with British Columbia Wildfire Service on the fire along the US/Canada border.

Fire activity increased on the Luna Fire (approx. 950 acres) during the hot, dry, and windy fire weather conditions this weekend. The fire remains north of McMillan Creek and is now burning on both sides of Big Beaver Creek in heavy fuels. Fire activity is expected to increase with the return of hot and dry weather conditions this week with the potential for fire progression to the north, south, and east. With the projected fire progression, additional area closures go into effect on Monday, August 3. Closures are in place to protect the public. The Yellowstone Wildland Fire Module continues a suppression strategy and structure protection for values at risk. The crew is being supported by two Type-3 helicopters as weather and smoke conditions permit.

Closures: For 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: Cooler temperatures are expected today, warming on Monday. The return of elevated fire weather is predicted Tuesday-Friday this week.

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 the hot and dry weather and increased fire behavior, with a smoke layer settling over the fire areas and Ross Lake. Visitors to the area should expect to see smoke impacts in the Ross Lake area. 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