Powerline Fire 7/16/19 AM
Powerline Fire 7/16/19 AM
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Powerline Fire Update
Fire Information Number – (509) 656-4235 Update 1030
July 16, 2019
Tony Gilmer, Incident Commander
FIRE STATUS: Acres Burned: 7800 Containment: 65% Cause: Under Investigation Structures Damaged: None Closures: None Evacuations: Level 1 & 2 Total Personnel: 90 Injuries: 0  | COOPERATING AGENCIES Bureau of Land Management Bureau of Reclamation Grant County Fire District #8  |
Incident Summary: The Powerline Fire was reported at 12:38, on Sunday July 14, located approximately 4 miles north of Mattawa. Winds pushed the fire to the east on the south flank of the Saddle Mountains north of Road 23 SW and Wahluke Road SW.
Fire Update: Monday dawned with overcast skies, calm winds and precipitation over the fire’s footprint. Fire crews who took advantage of the favorable conditions constructed and improved fire line, mopped up hot spots and suppressed one flare up in the afternoon hours. Ten power poles destroyed by the fire were replaced by Grant County PUD Monday afternoon thus restoring power to local irrigation facilities, cell towers and a critical radio repeater used by law enforcement and emergency medical service agencies.
Strong gusty winds last night tested fire lines and no flare ups were observed. As a result most resources will be released from the fire today leaving two Type 1 (Hotshot) Crews, one Strike Team and one Dozer to continue mopping up. This is all in preparation to return command back to the local unit on Wednesday.
Safety: As with all incidents, public and firefighter safety are the main objective. Level 1 & 2 Evacuation Levels remain in effect to the east of the fire. Members of the public are asked to avoid driving in the vicinity of the fire, specifically on Road 24, to lessen the impact on fire apparatus traveling on narrow, two lane roads.
Special Message: A special thank you to the community of Mattawa, outlying areas and the Wahluke School District for the support and hospitality shown to fire fighters and support staff during this incident
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