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Chelan County Emergency Management issued a Level 1 Fire Advisory for Entiat River Road due to the Lower Sugarloaf Fire, which remains active amid changing weather conditions. Firefighters continue to secure fire lines and conduct burning operations to protect nearby communities while monitoring evacuation advisories.
A mountain rescue team recovered the body of 37-year-old Andrew Wong, a hiker reported overdue in the Dragontail Peak area of the Enchantments. The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Wong fell from hazardous terrain while hiking on September 9, 2025. His death highlights the dangers of the region's challenging landscapes.
Firefighters achieved 11% containment of the Lower Sugarloaf Fire following favorable weather conditions and mop-up operations. Crews focused on securing fire lines, particularly near Roaring Creek and Gold Ridge, while evacuation advisories remain in effect for parts of Chelan County. Smoke impacts communities like Leavenworth and Wenatchee, prompting an Air Quality Alert.
Firefighters combat the Lower Sugarloaf Fire as air support increases amid challenging weather conditions. They focus on burning operations and line construction to contain the blaze, with evacuation advisories issued for nearby communities. The American Red Cross has opened a shelter for evacuees.
The Manson Public Library will reopen on September 16 following a $208,000 renovation. The updates aim to create a community-driven design that reflects the town's character. Library leaders anticipate the renovations will enhance local engagement and usage.
Wenatchee Valley College received $130,000 from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges to enhance workforce development. The funding will support the redesign of programs in machining, graphic design, and engineering to better align with local industry needs.
Firefighters have contained several small lightning-caused fires in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest as larger blazes continue to threaten the area. The U.S. Forest Service reports ongoing efforts to manage new ignitions and prevent further spread.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office warns residents of a phone scam where callers impersonate law enforcement officials to extort money. Victims receive calls claiming they have failed to appear for jury duty and are pressured to make immediate payments, often through Bitcoin. The Sheriff’s Office advises residents to hang up and verify any claims directly with them.
Approximately 5,000 members of the Washington Army National Guard did not participate in a recent training drill due to budget cuts linked to funding clawbacks by the Trump administration. These adjustments aimed to save costs amid a financial shortfall, with a typical drill weekend costing around $2.5 million. Officials maintain that the overall readiness of the National Guard remains intact despite the reduced participation.
The Chelan-Douglas Health District seeks new members for its Board of Health as terms for several members expire in December. Positions available include a public health professional and a community stakeholder, with applications due by October 6. Incoming members will help guide public health initiatives in Chelan and Douglas counties starting January 2026.