Urgent evacuation ordered as Pioneer Fire threatens Stehekin

STEHEKIN - Authorities have issued a Level 3 evacuation order for the remote community of Stehekin as the Pioneer Fire continues to threaten the area.

The Chelan County Emergency Management announced the "Get Out Now" notice will take effect at 8 a.m. Sunday, July 28, covering the region from just north of Moore Point through the Stehekin Valley, including the Stehekin landing and west to High Bridge.

Officials stressed the urgency of the situation, warning that the wildfire poses an immediate threat to life and safety. Residents and property owners are strongly advised to leave Stehekin immediately, as emergency responders may not be able to reach those in need of assistance due to the rapidly evolving situation.

Evacuee transportation down Lake Chelan is available daily at 10:40 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., with shuttle service to the landing running one hour before boat departure times. Authorities have established areas of refuge with shuttle service at the Stehekin Ranch, airfield, Buckner Orchard, and Stehekin bakery. Evacuees are instructed to park at the airfield, a change from previous arrangements.

The American Red Cross is prepared to open a shelter for evacuees at the Chelan community gym if necessary. Upon arrival in Chelan, Link Transit buses will be available to transport evacuees to the shelter.

As part of the Level 3 evacuation, all nonessential employees with fire teams will also be evacuated. Chelan County Emergency Management and the Sheriff's Office remain staged in Stehekin to coordinate evacuation efforts and monitor the fire's progress.

The Pioneer Fire, which has been burning in the area, has prompted this escalation in evacuation levels. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge all residents to heed the evacuation order for their safety.