Single Publication

Cowlitz Complex Fire Update

September 12, 2023

California Incident Management Team 13 is now in command of the Cowlitz Complex. The team would like to recognize the work of Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team Two, as well as the local fire personnel and firefighters first to respond to the 30 fires in the complex. These fires started August 25 after a lightning event across the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Maintaining the level of firefighting resources, dedication to safety, and goal of keeping fires small and in their current footprint remain priorities for Team 13, as well as continuing to be ready for any new fire starts or spread.

Current Situation: The Cowlitz Complex is 12% contained with a total of 669 acres and 268 personnel. A warming and drying trend begins on Wednesday. Overnight humidity recovery will worsen by Thursday with above normal temperatures by the end of the week. This could result in increased fire activity. Monday, incoming incident management team personnel got eyes on the complex of fires and reported minimal fire activity on the Grassy Mountain Fire, one of the fires of concern in the complex. The same is true for the Snagtooth and Spencer Quartz fires.

Progress has been made on the Snagtooth and Spencer Quartz fires. Fire managers are using natural barriers, improving road systems, and building indirect line to create a “catcher’s mitt” to prevent the fires from moving toward the southwest.

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 7802 junction and the 2278 junction due to hazardous debris rolling out onto the roadway.

Temporary Flight Restrictions: Two TFRs are in effect, 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.

Fire Information Phoneline: (360) 208-8075 Hours: 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

Email: 2023.cowlitzcomplex@firenet.gov  

Facebook: Facebook/CowlitzComplex  Twitter: https://twitter.com/GPNF