Pearl Hill Fire transitions to local command as containment reaches 81%

BRIDGEPORT — Management of the Pearl Hill Fire will transition back to local firefighters Wednesday evening after the blaze held within established containment lines despite strong winds, marking a significant milestone in the response to the wildfire southeast of Bridgeport.

The fire, which started July 25 about 10 miles southeast of Bridgeport, is estimated at 8,058 acres and is now 81% contained. Firefighters spent Tuesday patrolling the perimeter and extinguishing remaining hot spots along the fire's edge after the fire remained within containment lines through another day of gusty conditions.

An updated perimeter map released Wednesday shows most of the fireline now contained, with only limited sections of the perimeter remaining uncontained as crews complete final suppression objectives before the incident transitions back to local command.

Resources assigned to the incident will demobilize throughout the day as the Northeast Washington Incident Management Team transfers responsibility back to the local unit. After the transition, local firefighters will continue patrolling and monitoring the fire.

Officials said isolated hot spots remain within the interior of the fire, primarily among rock outcroppings and scree on steep cliffs. Smoke may occasionally be visible from those areas, but it is expected to remain well inside established containment lines. Residents are encouraged to call 911 if they observe active fire near the perimeter or fire behavior that appears concerning.

The Northeast Washington Incident Management Team thanked Douglas County Fire District 3, cooperating agencies, local landowners and surrounding communities for their support and cooperation throughout the incident.

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