Pioneer Fire grows to 26,137 acres

CHELAN - The Pioneer Fire has expanded to 26,137 acres, with containment holding at 14%, fire officials reported Friday. The blaze, which began on June 8, continues to challenge the 782 firefighters battling it amid persistent hot and dry conditions.

Firefighters made progress Thursday, constructing a direct fireline to Lake Chelan's edge just north of Moore Point and executing a successful firing operation to secure the area. Helicopter support played a crucial role, dropping 110,000 gallons of water near Hunts Creek to aid ground crews in their efforts.

Helicopters will continue water bucket operations today to cool and slow the fire's spread, supporting firefighters on the ground. The fire management team is preparing for the possibility of additional firing operations to protect homes and infrastructure in the Stehekin Valley, where crews have been strengthening and extending firelines while increasing hose lays for community protection.

Complicating firefighting efforts, a new lightning-caused fire, dubbed the Easy Fire, ignited on July 17 about 20 air miles west of Mazama. While some resources from the Pioneer Fire were dispatched to assist with the initial attack on the new blaze, fire managers are requesting additional firefighting resources for both incidents as they become available.

The National Park Service has expanded closures in the North Cascades, and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest maintains a closure order for much of the Pioneer Fire area. Evacuation orders at various levels remain in effect around the fire.

A heat advisory is still in place, with Friday's forecast calling for hot temperatures, sunny skies, and low relative humidity, conditions that continue to elevate fire danger in the region.

Fire officials urge residents to stay informed through official channels and adhere to all evacuation orders and fire restrictions.