Goddard Road Fire Update 7/18 - 8am

 Goddard Road Fire

 News Release  - July 18th, 2021

Rice, WA:  The Goddard Road fire was reported on July 16th, at approximately 1:43pm near Goddard Road and Orin-Rice Road.  The fire is about 1 mile northeast of Rice and 11 miles southeast of Kettle Falls. 

 Yesterday, fire behavior greatly diminished, with the exception of a few active spots on the southwest and northern flanks.  Helicopters and fire bosses helped to slow progression in these areas, allowing crews to strengthen lines.  Spotting occurred along the north line in as afternoon winds increased, but crews were able to line them as they occurred.  A helicopter was able to support crews in containing the spots. 

 Today, crews will work to finalize the line around the fire and start installing hose lays and pumps.  This will allow crews to begin removing burning material away from the fire line and increasing containment.  In some cases, a burnout operation might be necessary on an indirect line and increased smoke might be visible in the fire during these times. 

 Evacuation levels are expected to change this morning.  Stevens County Emergency Management will alert citizen of the changes on their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/stevenscountyem) as well through HyperReach for those who are registered.