The 2026 Fire Season has been extreme and destructive here in both Washington and Oregon. However, thanks to the hundreds to thousands of men and women across the Pacific Northwest, from California,

These two are being managed by the same CIMT.

🔥 LITTLE GIANT FIRE

The Little Giant Fire, a lightning-sparked wildfire, broke out on July 15, 2026, in timber and dormant brush.

It is still showing as an active incident, which is located about 30 miles northwest of Leavenworth (Chelan County), Washington State. The fire was said to have originated in the Chiwawa River Valley.

(R) Guardsmen, WA DNR, and CAL FIRE crew bosses are seen in this photo heading back to their vehicles before heading back to base camp for the evening.

Photo Credit: TSgt Daniel Maves, WA National Guard

FIRE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Emergency Declaration declared by Board of County Commissioners on August 4, 2026.
  • The Washington State Governor Bob Ferguson, is recognized by the Federal Government for Counties: Chelan, Ferry, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens, and Yakima, along with the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and the Spokane Tribe of Indians.
  • The fire threatened communities of Lake Wenatchee, Entiat, and the north/south shores of Lake Chelan.

Approximately 217 total personnel, along with two engines, two helicopters, and a CIMT, continue to remain committed.

Fire Officials report there have been about 40 structures lost to the fire. (NIFC.gov). It has also burned about 172,904 acres (AM briefing), and a 93% containment status has been reached. This, however, does not mean the fire will be completely out after full containment has been reached.

The cost to date for fire suppression and containment efforts has reached a whopping $197 million.

🔥 SISI FIRE

The Sisi Fire started on August 14, 2026, also from lightning that passed over the area. This wildfire is located approximately 10 miles northwest of Stehikin, Washington State. Fire fuels include timber and closed timber litter.

Though the Little Giant Fire is being observed as having minimal fire behavior, Sisi Fire remains with moderate activity, with smoldering, backing, and flanking.

According to an earlier morning briefing, the fire has burned about 4,439 acres, and there is a 34% containment status. Firefighters continue to focus on fire suppression and increasing containment efforts. The estimated timeline is scheduled for October 31, 2026, to be fully contained.

Both wildfires are burning in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest on lands owned and managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

Sources: NIFC, NWCC, Little Giant Fire Info (FB page), Con FIRE, and CAL FIRE.

(c) 2026 NW Fire Blog