Pioneer Fire crosses Flick Creek, prompting expanded evacuations

STEHEKIN—The Pioneer Fire in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has intensified, crossing Flick Creek and prompting new evacuation orders for the Stehekin community. Officials reported Thursday that the fire, which began on June 8, has grown to 31,584 acres.

Fire activity increased significantly in the Flick Creek drainage on Wednesday, breaching a check line constructed by firefighters. The blaze continues to move northwest towards Fourmile Creek and Stehekin, leading Chelan County Emergency Management to issue a Level 2 evacuation notice for the area from Hazard Creek through the Stehekin Valley, including Stehekin Landing and west to High Bridge.

All tourism-related visitors, campers, and hikers are required to leave Stehekin on July 25. Chelan County Emergency Management is providing information on boat schedules for evacuation.

Firefighters have successfully protected structures along the lakeshore, employing burnout tactics around homes and infrastructure. Aerial support continues, with helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft dropping water to slow the fire's spread.

In Stehekin, crews are collaborating with a state-mobilized structure protection group to mitigate fire risk around private property. As a precautionary measure, firefighters are installing hose and sprinkler systems.

The southern edge of the fire remains stable in the Lone Fir drainage, showing no movement for several days. Indirect control lines between this area and Manson are prepared for use if necessary.

Weather forecasts predict strong northwest winds of 10-20 mph with gusts of 25 to 30 mph on Thursday, slowing into Friday morning. Cooler conditions are expected, with high temperatures in the 70s.

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has maintained its closure order for much of the fire area, and a Temporary Flight Restriction remains in effect, prohibiting unauthorized drone activity.

As the Pioneer Fire continues to threaten communities, officials urge residents to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders. The incident management team is providing regular updates through community meetings and online platforms.