Stayman Fire Update: New management team takes command as firefighting efforts continue

CHELAN — Firefighters continue to battle the Stayman Fire near Chelan as a new incident management team assumed command early Wednesday morning. The fire has burned 3,458 acres.

The fire, which began Tuesday afternoon in the Chelan Butte Wildlife Area, has been burning through tall grass, brush, sage, and timber. Firefighters worked through the night to protect homes and limit the fire's spread, utilizing bulldozers to construct firelines along the southern and western edges of the blaze.

Northwest Complex Incident Management Team 3, which has been managing the Pioneer, Easy, and Flat fires, took command of the Stayman Fire at 7:00 a.m. Wednesday. The team's objectives are to contain the fire while ensuring firefighter safety and protecting surrounding communities.

Wednesday's firefighting efforts will focus on holding the west and south flanks of the fire within established dozer and retardant lines. Crews will also reinforce firelines along the northern edge below Chelan Butte to protect private properties in the area.

Evacuation orders remain in place for affected areas. Residents are advised to stay informed through the Chelan County Emergency Management's social media channels and the county's Emergency Incidents Map.

Aerial support continues to play a role in containment efforts. Authorities have requested that boaters on Lake Chelan give space to scooper planes operating in the area.

As the situation evolves, officials emphasize the importance of public cooperation with evacuation orders and fire restrictions to ensure public safety and support ongoing firefighting efforts.