Cold Springs Fire grows to 187,689 acres, 25% contained

We will update Pearl Hill and Apple Acre Fires for today when the information is available.

OMAK -  Last night: Crews overnight night worked to strengthen containment lines that are in place and create additional containment line.

Today: Priorities today will focus on the area east of Omak Lake and the Haley Lake area. This area is where the most fire activity is and firefighters on the ground will be assisted by bucket operations from a helicopter. One other priority is shoring up the Old Mill area in town. The mill and the area around the mill is smoldering and crews look to cool off that area. Dozer and hand lines will be shored up and firefighters will work in from the perimeter of the fire on hot spots. Power companies are working on replacing poles and to restore power in affected areas. A reconnaissance helicopter flight is scheduled this morning to get a better idea of the areas burned. The fire is 187,689 acres and is 25% contained. Temperatures will be in the low 90’s and humidity levels will be in the low teens.

The Cold Springs Fire started Sunday evening and currently there are approximately 290 firefighters from local agencies and from around the region are engaged in firefighting operations.

Several structures and outbuildings were damaged and/or lost during initial attack. The team is continuing structure assessments.    

The Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of an infant and serious injury of 2 individuals that were found Wednesday within the fire perimeter.

Okanogan County Fairgrounds is open for livestock and has areas for RV campers. The Red Cross is coordinating shelter for those that have been evacuated. The contact information for the Red Cross is 509 670-5331. The Red Cross has opened a shelter in Brewster. Citizen and firefighter safety are the number one priority.  Citizens are asked to remain clear of the fire area.

Level 2 & 3 evacuation orders remain in place. For current evacuation orders please see www.Okanogandem.org . Click on the incidents tab and locate the specific incident. Columbia River Rd. remains closed.

Fire information and the incident command post is located at Omak Stampede grounds in Omak. Fire information contact is Jeff Sevigney at (509) 993-2946 or Don Malone at (509) 822-8125 or you can also follow us on Facebook @NEWIMT3, and Inciweb @ https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident7161