Single Publication

Williams Mine Fire Update for Tuesday, August 27, 2024

KEY MESSAGES:

Complex Incident Management Team Northwest 13, which has been managing the Williams Mine Fire since August 9th, will transfer command of the incident tonight at 6:00 p.m.  The fire will be managed by a local Type 3 Incident Management organization predominantly assembled from the local area. 

The transition will not impact operations being carried out by firefighters and crews. Their focus will continue to be achieving incident objectives in a safe and efficient manner and ensuring that a smooth transition occurs.

CURRENT STATUS: 

Crews continue patrolling and monitoring the southern and eastern portions of the fire to ensure containment lines remain secure. To the west, the mechanical prepping of FS-023 road continues and will remain a focus point for the Type 3 IMT organization and their operations. It is estimated that this operation will continue for at least another two weeks.  

WEATHER / FIRE BEHAVIOR:

Weather will be slightly cooler today with humidity levels staying around 40 percent. Wind gusts may reach up to 30 mph today over the fire area. In the upcoming days, temperatures are expected to rise into the 80s.  This warming trend has the potential for increased fire activity within the interior of the fire perimeter. This also may lead to increased smoke production which potentially will be visible from our local communities.

SAFETY AND CLOSURES: 

The Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Tract D Recreation Area is currently closed, please see Yakama Tract D Road Closure for more information.  The FS-023 and FS-25 roads are closed, see the Williams Mine Area and Road Closure for more details. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is closed from the PCT's intersection with FS-023 to Potato Hill. The current area closure spans the entire Mt. Adams Wilderness.