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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cowlitzcomplex/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/GPNF 
Gifford Pinchot National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/giffordpinchot 
Incident Photos and Videos for download for public and media use: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/kczcrxz6g5rfbtv7znub7/h?rlkey=794wim8o7dwdzpyauajqilcvn&dl=0

Cowlitz Complex Fire Update 

September 20, 2023

Current Situation: The Cowlitz Complex is 34% contained with a total of 715 acres and 303 personnel. The fire has slowed enough that fire managers have been able to release two helicopters to other fires with more immediate needs, leaving five available for the Cowlitz Complex. The fire continues to smolder and creep within the forest duff layer (needles, twigs, shedded bark) and the root systems of trees. Crews continue to work on constructing additional “contingency” lines which act as an additional line of defense in the unlikely event the fire grow beyond existing perimeters. Fire managers do not anticipate much movement on the fires as temperatures cool. 

Safety Message: Wet weather and rain bring more hazards on the roadways. Slower travel speeds are required to remain safe, especially on dirt or gravel roads. Leave extra distance between vehicles when visibility decreases. Be sure your tires are roadworthy and your windshield wipers are working. 

Background: There are 30 fires in the complex. The fires started August 25 after a lightning event across the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. All fires are being managed under full suppression strategy.

Fire Restrictions: Fire Restrictions remain in effect. Campfires are prohibited across the Gifford Pinchot National Forest – only propane-fueled fire pits, stoves and lanterns are allowed. Additional information is available on the forest’s website at Gifford Pinchot National Forest - Fire Management (usda.gov). The decision to lift or maintain fire restrictions depends on factors such as current and expected weather conditions, fuel moisture, the level of fire activity, and the availability of firefighting resources to respond to additional ignitions.

Closures: In anticipation of ongoing fire activity in the vicinity of the Snagtooth Fire the following roads and trails are closed to the public to reduce exposure and help ensure public and firefighter safety: Forest Roads 9300 and 9341, Boundary Trail #1 (from Elk Pass to intersection with Summit Prairie), Summit Prairie #2, Craggy Peak #3, Snagtooth #4, Quartz #5, Stabler Camp #17, Wright Meadows #80, Basin Camp #3A, Quartz #5B, Quartz #5C (French Creek), Snyder Pasture #80A. Forest Road 8410 is closed for firefighter and public safety in the vicinity of the Pothole Fire, and Forest Road 78 is temporarily closed between the 78 and the 22 junction due to hazardous debris rolling out onto the roadway.

Temporary Flight Restrictions: Two TFRs are in effect during daylight hours, one located north of US-12 to Mount Rainier National Park, and a new TFR south of US-12 to include Snagtooth and Spencer Quartz fires. Fire aviation response is halted or delayed if an unauthorized aircraft enters the TFR. Temporary flight restrictions also apply to unmanned aircraft systems or drones. Learn more: Know Before You Fly.