Burn restrictions lift as fall lowers wildfire risk across Chelan County
Chelan County's wildfire danger has diminished with the arrival of fall, leading to lifted burn restrictions and evacuation levels. The Labor Mountain Fire remains at 30 percent containment, with fire officials reporting minimal growth and favorable conditions. Areas surrounding both the Labor Mountain and Lower Sugarloaf fires remain closed to ensure public safety. The U. S.
Forest Service has restarted prescribed fire operations on October 16, aiming to mitigate overgrown vegetation and enhance wildfire resilience. Residents are reminded to follow strict guidelines for outdoor burning, including confirming approved burn days with the Washington Department of Ecology. The Cascadia Prescribed Burn Association will conduct its first fall burn on October 17, engaging the community in land management practices. Smoke from these activities may affect local air quality, with updates available on the AirNow website. Such measures are crucial for protecting communities and natural resources from future wildfires.