Chelan County Extends Burn Ban, Fire Restrictions through October 15

Chelan County has extended its outdoor burning ban through October 15 due to ongoing dry conditions and significant wildfires. The Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved this extension following recommendations from the fire marshal and local fire chiefs. Fire Marshal Chris Pedersen stated, "It's still very dry out there and we have two of the largest wildfires burning in the state here in Chelan County. " The ban includes prohibitions on open burning, off-road driving, and the use of explosives and incendiary ammunition. Residents are allowed to use propane fires in controlled settings such as residential campfires and barbecues.

Currently, resources are stretched thin as firefighters combat the Lower Sugarloaf Fire near Entiat and the Labor Mountain Fire near Blewett Pass. The extension aims to provide firefighters with more time and potentially favorable weather conditions to control the blazes. Community cooperation is crucial during this period to support local firefighting efforts.