Single Publication

Cowlitz Complex Fire Update  

September 16, 2023 

Current Situation: The Cowlitz Complex is 32% contained with a total of 684 acres and 377 personnel. Aircraft continued to drop water over the Grassy Mountain, Snagtooth, and Spencer Quartz fires on Friday.  Crews are making progress on indirect containment lines on these fires to keep them within their current perimeter. Warmer and drier temperatures are expected to last through today, Saturday, September 16. Current fire activity is not anticipated to threaten the nearest communities of Randle or Packwood, Washington. 

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

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. 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, 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.