Lower Sugarloaf Fire grows to 10,000 acres

The Lower Sugarloaf Fire has expanded to an estimated 10,000 acres northeast of Leavenworth, with firefighters actively engaged in suppression efforts. An isolated storm cell overnight pushed flames southeast, leading to a full suppression strategy to protect critical values. Chelan County Emergency Management has issued evacuation notices categorized as Levels 1, 2, and 3 in the affected areas. Firefighting crews are utilizing cooler temperatures and higher humidity to conduct burn operations and secure the fire's perimeter. Smoke from the fire is impacting air quality in Plain, Leavenworth, Wenatchee, and Entiat, prompting air quality alerts from the National Weather Service.

As of Sunday morning, resources include 451 personnel, nine crews, and various firefighting equipment, yet containment remains at zero percent. The fire, which began on September 1 due to lightning, continues to pose a threat as new resources arrive to support ongoing efforts. The forecast indicates northwesterly winds and a chance of wetting rain on Tuesday, which may aid firefighting efforts.