ELMER CITY FIRE

Multiple wildfires broke out in the Okanogan-Grant County area on September 11th that has caused much confusion to several of us, including mainstream Media.  Wildfire information from various sources has differed and has been sketchy at times leaving us to wonder.  But have no fear, we think we may have unlocked the mystery which in turn will be two separate posts.

Incident Summary

This first fire started  yesterday afternoon, as a wind-driven wildfire driving the flames South and East. Fire crews a great job protecting Elmer City as the flames pushed up the hillside and around the city while continuing South.

At one point, the fire was located above Grand Coulee City Hall, prompting firefighters to enact immediate structure protection.

Resources

Yesterday during the day, there were several aircraft working the fire, four (4) fire bosses (single engine scoopers), and a four (4) engine heavy fire bombers (BAE 146). Mt. Tolman Fire Center had two (2) dozers actively working the fire.

The fire made a long, narrow section of scorched path, almost reaching the Columbia River several miles upriver from Grand Coulee Dam which was a serious concern to many,

Location

The Elmer City Fire is located just North of Elmer City (Okanogan County), Washington State.

Status

As of September 11th evening, the fire is approximately 2000 acres with a 75% containment status. (reported by Mt. Tolman Fire Center air resources)

Another Fire Burns in Same Area

A second fire was burning between Elmer City and Coulee Dam but was quickly put out, limiting the size to less than a quarter acre.  No evacuations, cause or injuries were reported.

Cause 

Cause of the fire is still under investigation, but power line slap (one wire touching the other due to gusty winds) is being looked at.

Evacuations

Alert Level One is still in effect for the area as the fire has the potential to hook around and move back west towards Coulee Dam and Elmer City. The winds are predicted to pick up again today.

Ways to #PrepareNOW

Warnings

A Red Flag Warning is in effect until 1900 hours on September 12th for the following Counties:

  • Adams
  • Benton
  • Douglas
  • Franklin
  • Grant
  • Klickitat
  • Lincoln
  • Yakima

Social Media

Hashtags being used for this fire are #WaWILDFIRE #NWFireBlogWA  #ElmercityFire  #OkanoganCoFire

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Thank You for reading our Post today.  May have you have a Safe Day!

 

 

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