Chelan Hills Fire crews brace for red flag winds as containment holds at 20%

CHELAN — Firefighters strengthened containment lines overnight on the Chelan Hills Fire as crews prepared for critical fire weather expected to test the fire Tuesday and Wednesday.

The wildfire remained at 9,735 acres and 20% contained as of Tuesday morning, July 7, according to the Southeast Washington Interagency Incident Management Team.

Crews continued structure protection efforts overnight, extinguished pockets of heat near the fire's edge and worked to reinforce containment lines ahead of forecast gusty downslope winds across an extremely dry landscape. Fire managers said those winds are expected to create critical red flag conditions throughout the fire area and much of Eastern Washington.

Utilities have also begun re-energizing power lines in portions of the fire area where conditions allow.

Firefighters will continue prioritizing the protection of homes, agricultural assets and surrounding communities while working to minimize the fire's impacts.

Road closures remain in effect, and officials said both road and fire conditions continue to pose hazards as emergency crews remain active throughout the incident area. The public is asked to stay out of the area and avoid traveling on affected roadways.

The fire remains under a Temporary Flight Restriction, and officials reminded the public not to fly drones in or near the wildfire.

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office also noted that its website is currently unavailable.

As of Tuesday morning, 41 engines, five hand crews, six water tenders and four dozers were assigned to the fire. Aircraft remain available as needed.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media