White Pine Fire near Harvard grows to 800 acres, 10 contained

The White Pine Fire near Harvard has grown to nearly 800 acres, with a containment level of just 10%. Operations Chief Scott McAvoy indicated that shifting winds played a significant role in the fire's spread across Forest Service Road No. 768. Firefighting teams are implementing various strategies, including laying hoses and conducting aerial water and retardant drops. Level 1 "Go" evacuations are in effect at the Giant White Pine Campground, and Level 2 "Set" evacuations are in place nearby.

The Island Creek Fire has also escalated, burning 14,800 acres with only 5% containment. Fire crews continue to manage multiple fires, including the Mire Fire and East Fire, which have burned over 1,300 acres and 2,114 acres, respectively. High winds and thunderstorms forecast for the coming days threaten to exacerbate fire conditions. Firefighter safety remains a priority as erratic winds and low humidity complicate suppression efforts in the region.