State continues to burn

With no rain in sight, eastern Washington’s wildfire season keeps getting hotter and hotter. According to numerous sources, there are currently 16 wildfires burning on more than 600,000 acres. In Okanogan County, a new state record was set after 370,000 acres went up in flames. At least 200 homes have burned, although the list of those confirmed is by no means complete.

As wind speeds increase or decrease and their direction changes, emergency management personnel issue updates on the danger levels in the form of press releases and radio spots.

The information on the accompanying map and table summarizes several active large wildfires in northeast Washington. The information is approximate and subject to change.

The fire danger rating is given as Extreme – National Wildfire Preparedness Moves to Highest Level (PL 5) – meaning that fires will start easily, spread rapidly, quickly increase in intensity and be very difficult to control.

Phase II fire restrictions are in effect. Campfires, charcoal grills and chainsaw use are prohibited.

The current Industrial Fire Precaution Level (Washington Dept. of Natural Resources) is at level 4 in all zones.

The Washington National Guard has sent 700 soldiers into action; helicopter crews from several Western states are engaged; fire crews have arrived from as far away as Australia.

Donations

Those wishing to offer assistance to people who have lost homes or businesses due to the wildfires are advised that monetary donations are preferred. The Red Cross and other reputable disaster relief organizations are equipped to make the necessary purchases of needed items.

A short list of items that can be donated includes coolers, tents, cots, sleeping bags, diapers, paper towels, toilet paper, paper plates, paper cups, flashlights, batteries, playpens, bandaids and equipment such as generators and trailers or campers for temporary housing. No clothing is being accepted at this time.

Stevens County disaster relief donation sites for non-perishable items (toiletries, blankets, house hold goods, cleaning materials) opened Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Colville Fairgrounds, 317 W. Aster Ave., Colville, WA 99114, (509) 684-2585.

Also currently receiving and distributing donations is Fruitland Service Station (Southern Stevens County), 5369 Highway 25 South, Fruitland, WA 99129, (509) 722-3525.

Volunteers to assist in donation sorting, receiving and distribution are asked to contact Wendy Rogers at scdisasterrelief@gmail.com. She is working with multiple agencies in the area to coordinate volunteer efforts.

Monetary donations are being accepted by Tim Gray to PO Box 189, Colville, WA 99114 and being managed by scdisasterrelief@gmail.com and the American Red Cross. For client assistance, call 509-496-3448.