Kachess Complex (WAOWF)

Wildfire Status:

The Kachess Complex, comprising three lightning-sparked fires in the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, has shown significant progress towards containment as of August 17, 2024. The fires, which include the Stave Creek, Thomas, and Waptus fires, started between August 9 and 10 and have collectively burned approximately 23 acres. As of the latest report, the Waptus fire is fully contained, while the Thomas fire is 95% contained and the Stave Creek fire is 35% contained.

Fire management responsibilities have transitioned back to the Cle Elum Ranger District from the Albuquerque Zone Type 3 Incident Management Team, indicating a shift towards local management as the situation stabilizes. The current firefighting efforts involve a total of 155 personnel working to suppress the remaining active fires, particularly focusing on the Stave Creek fire, which has been the most challenging due to its size and containment status.

Weather conditions have played a critical role in the fire's behavior, which has primarily been characterized by smoldering, creeping, and isolated tree torching. The fuel composition consists of mixed conifer and subalpine fir, with a heavy presence of dead and down timber, contributing to the complexity of the firefighting efforts. The estimated containment date is projected for October 15, 2024, but the situation will continue to be monitored closely, with updates provided only if significant developments occur.

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Containment History:

Fire Growth History: