Manila Creek Fire Update - September 16, 2007
Incident: Manila Creek Wildland Fire
Released: 9/16/2007
CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF THE COLVILLE RESERVATION
ACRES: 26,213
CONTAINMEMT: 50%
FIRE CAUSE: Under Investigation - Suspected Arson
LOCATION: The Manila Creek fire is burning 7 miles southeast of the town of Keller, Washington on the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. The fire cause is under investigation.
FIRE ACTIVITY: Firefighters made good progress yesterday completing line construction along the majority of the fire perimeter. Fire activity was vigorous with occasional interior burning and isolated torching creating a blanket of heavy smoke that filled the skies. Fire growth occurred primarily on the northwest and southeast perimeter. An infrared heat detecting device, used to identify the hot spots was utilized throughout the fire area.
TODAY'S PLAN: Fire crews will focus on the southern portion of the fire securing and strengthening containment lines. Structure protection crews will continue to work clearing areas of debris around threaten structures. Crews will begin mop-up operations concentrating on the northern portion of the fire and along Highway 21. Winds are expected to increase significantly later this afternoon causing an aggressive push against the control lines. Heavy helicopter support activities are expected on the northern perimeter as the winds may create difficulty in holding the fire line.
The heavy smoke over the last few days has reduced driving visibility. The public is urged to drive the fire area with caution. Law Enforcement has asked that the public not stop along the road-way where fire crews are working. In addition, boaters on the water parallel to the fire activity are asked to stay clear from the area where helicopters are dipping for water as this poses a safety hazard to the public and fire suppression crews. The Washington Incident Management Team 2 appreciates your support and patience while we deal with this difficult fire situation.
WEATHER: Sunny and warm with highs 71 to 82 degrees. Relative humidity 17 to 26 percent. Winds southwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning, then becoming west 10 to 15 mph with gusts 20 to 25 mph in the late afternoon.
EMERGENCY NOTICE LEVEL 3 - Mandatory evacuations remain in place for the Swawilla Basin and scattered structures along the Peter Dan/Manila Creek Road and the Old Manila Creek Road. Mount Tolman Fire Center has been reduced from a Level 3 to a Level 1 Advisory.
ROAD CLOSURES: Peter Dan/Manila Creek Road between Highway 155 and 21, Old Manila Creek Road, Meadow Creek Road, Lower Jack Creek Road, Upper Jack Creek Road, Keller Butte Road, Joe Moses Road, Buffalo Lake Road to Keller Butte Road.
COOPERATING AGENCIES: The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, the Department of Natural Resources and the Washington Incident Management Team 2 are working closely with the communities affected by the Manila Creek Fire.
RESOURCES: 22 Crews, 6 Helicopters, 37 Engines, 9 Dozers, 18 Water Tenders, 164 Overhead, Total Personnel - 833
