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Oct 22, Loch Katrine, Suiattle River, Boulder Lake Fires
Loch Katrine Fire
Publication Type: News 10/23/2022
Loch Katrine Fire, Suiattle River Fire, and Boulder Lake Fire
Daily Update, October 22, 2022, 10:00 AM
Fire activity on the Loch Katrine, Suiattle River, and Boulder Lake fires has been limited by the recent rain showers, cooler temperatures, and high-elevation snowfall. The last IR flight was on October 19, so acres have not been updated.
The Suiattle River Fire remains at 4,272 acres. The fire activity is minimal due to changing weather conditions. The fire area received approximately 0.5 inches within the fire perimeter yesterday and rain is forecast next week. The primary objectives on the Suiattle River Fire are to minimize the impact to private structures and property, Bureau of Land Management land, high-value timber land, and Forest Service infrastructure (Suiattle Guard Station, Buck Creek Campground, and the Darrington Seed Orchard). Firefighters have been successful at stopping fire spread along Forest Service Road 26 and the Suiattle River. A Burned Area Recovery Team (BAER) will be assigned to the fire in the near future to address rehabilitation needs in the fire area.
The Boulder Lake Fire remains at 2,317 acres. Fire activity is minimal. Fire managers will continue to assess tactics on the fire that will minimize potential impacts to values including private land and those managed by the Washington Department of Natural Resources.
As of 6:00 am tomorrow, October 23, 2022, the Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest will assume management of the Suiattle River Fire and the Boulder Lake Fire, because no further significant activity is anticipated on these fires based on current and expected weather forecasts. This will be the last fire update for these two fires. If you have questions or need addition information, please contact the Darrington Ranger Station during normal business hours at 360-436-1155.
Evacuation: Skagit County has lifted all evacuation orders for the nearby homes along the Suiattle River. Please note that Forest Road 26, also known as Suiattle River Road, will remain closed at this time for ongoing fire prevention and mitigation efforts. Crews are assisting residents returning home.
Weather and Fire Behavior: The storm system brought much cooler temperatures, light winds, and widespread rain. The rain and high-elevation snow showers greatly diminished the fire threat, resulting in limited smoldering of heavy fuels. Today (Saturday) will see scattered rain showers tapering off in the afternoon. This rainy weather pattern is forecast to persist into early next week. Caution: Rain may increase the risk of burn scar debris flows and flash floods.