Single Publication

Ruby Fire Quick Facts

Size: 1300 acres                            Location: North Cascades National Park, Ruby Mountain, Diablo, Washington

Containment: 0%                        Cause: Lightning/Natural

Start Date: August 9, 2024       Total Personnel: 42

Fire Information: 360-208-8096

Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/wancp-ruby-fire Email: 2024.Ruby@firenet.gov

Current Status: This weekend brought scattered precipitation, cool overnight temperatures, and shorter days (less daylight) which kept the fire within its footprint. Small patches of smoke were visible on the western edge of the fire. Firefighters continue to monitor fire behavior for spotting and growth. Crews continued to be staged in critical areas around the fire perimeter to help protect trails, campgrounds, and other values at risk. They also worked on hauling and consolidating inessential hoses and sprinkler equipment. This has meant a higher visible presence of firefighters working close to the road. Slow down. Travelers should use extra caution when traveling on State Route 20 (SR20) near Colonial Creek Campground to avoid inhibiting active firefighting operations. 

Planned Actions: Firefighters will continue to focus on protecting critical infrastructure such as campgrounds, SR20, trails, and backcountry camps in preparation for possible fire growth. The Ruby Fire is a full suppression fire, and firefighters are using tactics with the highest chance for success, while reducing safety risks to themselves and the public. 

Weather: Conditions will slightly dry out Monday before cool showers return Tuesday for another round of wetting rains. Temperatures will continue to remain below normal.

Closures: Multiple closures remain in place for public safety.  Panther Creek Trail and Thunder Creek Trail north of Junction camps, are closed. Go to the park website https://go.nps.gov/fireclosures for a complete list. 

Smoke: Air quality is forecast to be GOOD on Monday at https://www.airnow.gov.

Burning Restrictions: There are currently no fire restrictions in place: https://go.nps.gov/ban-lifted.

Drone Restrictions: If you fly, we can’t. Drones can jeopardize firefighting efforts, and operating drones within North Cascades National Park is prohibited, except with prior written approval from the superintendent. 

Cooperating Agencies & Tribes: National Park Service, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Seattle City Light, Whatcom County, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Dept. of Transportation, Washington DNR.

To sign up for Ruby Fire updates, email: 2024.Ruby@firenet.gov Thank you.