Pioneer Fire containment efforts progress despite challenging weather conditions

STEHEKIN - Firefighters battling the Pioneer Fire in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest made progress on containment efforts despite challenging weather conditions. The fire, which started on June 8 and is believed to be human-caused, has grown to 30,914 acres with 14% containment.

On Tuesday, firefighters focused on suppression and containment work on multiple fronts. Helicopters dropped water on the northern flank of the fire as crews began constructing a check line south of Flick Creek drainage, designed to slow the fire's progression along the lakeshore. The state-mobilized strike team, which arrived Monday, received additional equipment by barge to bolster structure protection efforts in Stehekin.

Overnight, the fire began backing into the Flick Creek drainage but has not crossed the creek. Firefighters will prioritize holding this section of the fire in the drainage today. The strike team will continue structure protection preparations in Stehekin, while crews monitor the Lone Fir drainage for heat spots using infrared technology.

Weather conditions remain a concern, with afternoon sunshine and warm temperatures reaching the mid-80s expected Wednesday. Although humidity levels may drop to around 25% in the afternoon, winds are forecasted to be light early in the day, picking up to gusts of 10-20 mph in the early evening and continuing through Thursday.

Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation orders remain in effect around the Pioneer Fire. The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has maintained its closure order for much of the fire area, and a Temporary Flight Restriction is still active, prohibiting unauthorized drone activity.

As the Pioneer Fire continues to challenge containment efforts, officials urge residents to stay informed, adhere to evacuation orders and forest closures, and remain vigilant in the face of ongoing fire danger.