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Fire danger ratings on the rise in Chelan County

UPDATE JULY 9: Danger ratings are now "very high" in both the Chelan County Mountain and Chelan Valley zones.

 

ORIGINAL POST: With soaring temperatures anticipated this July 4th weekend, the county fire marshal is raising fire danger ratings in Chelan County.

Fire danger ratings refer to how fire-prone the natural conditions are. The danger ratings are being raised from high to very high in the Chelan Valley Zone and from moderate to high in the Chelan County Mountain Zone. In Chelan County, there are four ratings: moderate, high, very high and extreme.

“The landscape is browning up quickly out there, and the upcoming high temperatures are only going to escalate that drying process,” Chelan County Fire Marshal Chris Pedersen said. “Going into the holiday weekend, people need to be aware of the increasing fire danger, especially when recreating outdoors.”

In addition, fire restrictions are being raised from general to Stage 1 restrictions. The elevated fire restrictions and fire danger ratings go into effect on July 6. Under Stage 1 restrictions:

  • Outdoor, open burning of grass, leaves, brush and other natural materials has been prohibited since June 1.
  • Motorists cannot drive off a county roadway, except to access open public lands.
  • The use of exploding targets and incendiary ammunition is prohibited.
  • Residential campfires are allowed only in a designated campfire area, including a portable fire pit.
  • The use of open-flame devices, such as tools with open flames, are restricted. This does not include cooking devices, such as camp stoves or barbecues.
  • Fires continue to be allowed in commercial barbecues and camp stoves.

The National Weather Service warns North Central Washington will have multiple days of high temperatures in the mid-90s to 100s beginning after July 4. People should expect little overnight relief, with low temperatures in the 60s. The NWS warns the heatwave could last well into next week.

“Wildfire season is underway in Eastern Washington,” Pedersen said. “People should be monitoring conditions and emergency alerts regularly. And, I can’t stress this enough, don’t light off fireworks this weekend – they are illegal in Chelan County.”

The increase in restrictions and fire danger ratings were recommended by the Fire Advisory Board, which meets weekly during the summer months to discuss wildfire conditions. The board consists of local fire chiefs, the county fire marshal and partners such as the U.S. Forest Service.

Monitor changes in fire restrictions and fire danger ratings on the Chelan County website.

Last Updated: 07/28/2024 10:37 AM

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