Wind and rugged terrain drive fire growth in Chelan County

Fire growth has surged in Chelan County due to dry cold fronts and challenging terrain, affecting the Labor Mountain and Lower Sugarloaf fires. As of September 29, the Lower Sugarloaf Fire spans nearly 40,000 acres with 38% containment, while the Labor Mountain Fire covers over 35,300 acres with only 7% containment. Evacuations have escalated in areas like Cashmere and Sunnyslope, prompting additional firefighting resources and federal assistance from FEMA. Incident Commander Tim Sexton stated that the rugged and inaccessible terrain complicates firefighting efforts, limiting air support due to smoke and wind. While evacuation notices have been downgraded in some areas, a Level 3 notice remains for the Labor Mountain Fire, indicating a critical threat.

Sexton noted that as the fire moves east, it may encounter more favorable terrain, improving containment efforts. The Chelan County Emergency Management website provides the latest evacuation information, and a Red Cross evacuation center is open for displaced residents. Additionally, Chelan County has extended its outdoor burning ban for two more weeks due to the ongoing fire risk.