Single Publication

Cowlitz Complex Fire Update

September 15, 2023

Current Situation: The Cowlitz Complex is 25% contained with a total of 679 acres and 334 personnel. Helicopters dropped water over the Grassy Mountain Fire, which produced increased smoke in the area. There was additional smoke from the Snagtooth and Spencer Quartz fires, and helicopters were deployed to drop water on those fires as well. The increased fire activity was due to a warming and drying trend that is expected through Saturday. Crews continue to improve and build lines to prevent the fires from reaching communities. Current fire activity is not anticipated to threaten the nearest community of Randle, Washington.

See attached photo: A helicopter making one of many repeated trips to and from the Grassy Mountain Fire to the Cowlitz River to collect water.

Firewise Training: There will be a free Firewise training this Saturday, September 16 from 10 am to 12 pm at the Packwood Main Fire Station on State Highway 12.  

Background: There are 30 fires in the complex. The fires started August 25 after a lightning event across the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Maintaining the level of firefighting resources, dedication to safety, and keeping fires in their current footprint remain priorities, as well as continuing to be ready for any new fire starts or spread.

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.