SIT REP 3: Saturday, August 12, 2023, 1900 PT

The SOURDOUGH FIRE is located about six miles northeast of Newhalem, Washington State, which was sparked by lightning on July 29, 2023, near Diablo in the very steep and rugged terrain of the Ross Lake National Rec.

(L) Photo Credit | Mount Vernon Professional Firefighters

Photo Description | MVFD Captain Scott Cleave is currently deployed as a Division Supervisor on the Sourdough Fire.

Yesterday: Fire behavior has been observed as of yesterday during warm weather as increasing, causing some resources to work on the northeastern side of the fire improving the Happy Panther Trail, and prepping around the Ross Dam communications building. Firefighters and employees with the Seattle City Light agency worked together removing hazardous trees along the popular Diablo Dam Road. Fire Officials also have resources focusing on the Sourdough Creek drainage where water has been dropped by fire suppression air assets, as well near structures in Diablo. A handheld TIC (thermal infrared camera) was used and discovered a hot spot. Night ops in the area monitored the hot spot closes. The fire was said to be backing downhill and along the highway to the west.

Today: Fire suppression efforts will be focused on the western flank, which is north of the highway. Burnout activities will continue if weather conditions are favorable. The goal is to tie into the 2015 Goodall Fire burn scar. Air support will continue to drop over the fire line.

Hwy 20 has been closed on and off as conditions around the roadway deteriorate.

The fire has burned an estimated 1,890 acres and crews have been able to gain a 5% containment status.

There is a total of 417 personnel along with nine crews, 20 engines, five water tenders, and seven copters.

The cost-to-date for Saturday has reached $5.4 Million.

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