Lightning storms ignite additional fires in park complex

SEDRO WOOLLEY, Wash. - Two additional fires have been discovered in North Cascades National Park Service Complex following lightning storms across the area earlier this week. Both fires were confirmed early in the evening on Wednesday, September 10. Weather conditions, including light showers and high humidity recoveries at night, have moderated fire behavior. Fire crews are still assessing potential fire activity associated with smoke reports within the park complex.

The Arctic Fire is approx. ¼ acre. Steep, cliffy, and difficult terrain pose significant threats to firefighter safety which limits direct handline work. Aerial delivered water operations are planned as conditions and visibility safely allow to support a full suppression strategy. There are no closures or threats to public safety or infrastructure at this time.

Neve Fires is approx. ¼ acre and located between Thunder Creek and Fourth of July Trails. Rappelers were ordered for initial attack but none were available for assignment. Yesterday a Type-3 helicopter provided aerial delivered water. Continued aerial delivered water operations are planned as conditions and visibility safely allow to support a full suppression strategy. The NOCA Fire Crew will hike to the fire today for initial attack efforts. There are no closures or threats to public safety or infrastructure at this time, however closures may occur as more information becomes available.

Visitors should check the park Fire Closures page prior to a visit for up-to-date trail and camp closure information. Closures are in place to protect the public.

Smoke conditions have lessened with the cooler weather but may increase with warm and dry temperatures. 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. Review smoke forecasts at https://fire.airnow.gov.

Fire restrictions remain in effect in all areas of the park complex. Campfires are banned in all portions of North Cascades National Park Service Complex - North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. This includes all National Park Service lands and campgrounds along State Route 20 as well as Hozomeen and the entire Stehekin Valley.