Single Publication

Tunnel Five Fire

July 8, 2023

Daily Fire Update

Tunnel Five Fire Quick Facts: Size: 559 acres | Origin: 2.25 mi W of White Salmon, WA | Containment: 35% |Cause: Under Investigation | Resources: 35 engines11 crews, 5 helicopters, 6 dozers, 13 water tenders Total personnel: 485 | Start Date: July 2, 2023 

Weather: Yesterday, temperatures were cooler across the fire area and relative humidities increased. Weather today will be similar, with slightly reduced wind speeds, temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s and relative humidities in the 30-35% range. There is a chance of cumulus buildup in the afternoon.

Operations: Gusty winds throughout the fire area contributed to an increase in fire activity within the interior of the fire perimeter yesterday, producing visible smoke but posing no threat to containment lines. Crews continued constructing and patrolling line, increasing containment to 35%.

Firefighters will monitor and hold control line today around the fire perimeter. Windy, hot and dry conditions will contribute to the ongoing consumption of interior pockets of fuel within containment lines. Smoke will be visible from inside of the fire area throughout the day. Crews will continue to patrol along Highway 14 and Cook-Underwood Road. Mop up and structure protection will continue as firefighting resources watch for hotspots and monitor for any embers over the line that could cause a spot fire. Initial Attack resources remain ready to rapidly shift assignments if necessary to assist local agencies with any new fire starts in the area.

Safety and Closures: Washington State Route 14 remains closed between mile markers 56-65 due to safety hazards from fire weakened trees and terrain that has been compromised by fire activity. Crews are actively engaged in clearing these safety hazards to safely reopen the highway. The Cook-Underwood Road is open to local traffic only. There is a Temporary Flight Restriction over the Tunnel Five Fire area. Wildland fires are a “no fly zone” for drones. If you fly, WE CAN’T. Smoke and aircraft will be visible within the I-84 corridor.

With the expectation of increased recreational traffic this weekend, we ask drivers and boaters to be extremely cautious on the water and roadways in the fire area, watching for firefighters and apparatus as they continue suppression efforts. Stay clear of areas on the river where aircraft may be dipping or drawing water. Visibility on roadways within the fire area may be impacted by smoke. Please drive slowly and be mindful of crews working in the area.

Evacuations: All Skamania County evacuation levels have been reduced to level 1 (BE READY). Visit Skamania County Sheriff’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SkamaniaSheriff for more info. The evacuation shelter at Skamania County Fairgrounds has been closed.

Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident-information/wases-tunnel-five-fire

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SWWaFireInfo

Fire Information Line: (971) 800-0411, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Media Information Line: (509) 508-3311

Email: 2023.tunnelfive@firenet.gov