7/30/2013 Large Fire Update for Central WA

Fire Facts: Coluckum Tarps – 12 miles SE of Wenatchee, Washington; 42,600 acres, 5% containment. This fire is burning in grass and brush, cause is under investigation. Evacuations remain in effect. Natural and cultural resources as well as wind farm infrastructure remain at risk. State Mobilization authorized.

Mile Marker 28 – 15 miles NE of Goldendale, Washington; 22,469 acres, 40% containment. This fire is burning in brush and timber, cause is unknown. Hwy 97 remains closed. Evacuations on southern portion of the fire have been lifted. Natural and cultural resources remain at risk. State Mobilization will end today

Local media updates: Goldendale area Wenatchee area:

Smoke Forecast: High levels of smoke are expected to continue close to the fires, particularly in the afternoon and at night. Some clearing is expected in and around the Columbia Basin this afternoon, but air may degrade to moderate or Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups at night.

A series of weather systems approach from Wednesday onward. The approaching low pressure systems and resulting east winds in eastern Washington will drag in some smoke from Idahoan wildfires on Wednesday. The smoke is likely to impact the Lewis-Clark Valley, and possibly Walla Walla. East winds could also drive some smoke from WA wildfires close to the Cascade crest and westward through the Columbia River Gorge.

Wednesday’s weather systems carry the risk of dry lightning and potential fire starts, but then bring what could be significant, fire-dousing rainfall to the east slopes of the Washington Cascades on Thursday. Talk about mixed blessings! Good clearing is expected on Thursday, so hopefully we’ll start the day on Friday with Good air quality everywhere.

Aqua satellite image from 7/29/2013