Closures lift in Lower Sugarloaf Fire area, visitors advised to enter with caution

Fire closures in the Lower Sugarloaf Fire area are easing as conditions improve, with eight Forest Service roads remaining closed primarily in the Tillicum Creek Area. The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest has reopened the Swakane Unit of the Chelan Wildlife Area, but officials urge visitors to exercise caution. They advise checking road closures online and remaining vigilant against post-fire hazards such as flash floods and landslides. The Lower Sugarloaf Fire, which spanned 42,980 acres, is now 99 percent contained, with 53 personnel still on site as of October 23. Fire crews are actively assessing and managing hazards, including the removal of fallen trees and repairing damaged infrastructure.

Officials underscore that while fire suppression efforts have decreased, significant work remains to ensure the area's safety. The Labor Mountain Fire, a nearby incident, is also nearing containment at 92 percent, yet closures remain in effect. Public safety continues to be a priority as the region transitions from firefighting to recovery efforts.