Single Publication

Tunnel Five Fire  

July 9, 2023  

Daily Fire Update  

Tunnel Five Fire Quick Facts  

Size: 559 acres | Origin: 2.25 mi W of White Salmon, WA | Resources: 24 engines,10 crews, 4 helicopters, 3 dozers, 6 water tenders | Containment: 65% | Cause: Under Investigation | Total personnel: 395 | Start Date: July 2, 2023   

Weather: Temperatures across the fire area dropped yesterday, as did wind speeds, reducing fire activity inside containment lines. Today, humidity recovery is better in the fire area, but warmer temperatures and erratic winds from nearby storm systems could contribute to increased fire behavior within the perimeter.

Operations: Firefighters continue to patrol and hold control line around the fire. Crews and equipment will be working along the Cook-Underwood Road in close proximity to the roadway today. This road is open to local traffic only. Please slow down near working crews and use extreme caution for the safety of firefighters.

Mop up and structure protection will be ongoing as NW Team 12 prepares for the demobilization of most firefighting resources over the next two shifts. Remaining fire crews and equipment will be utilized to monitor the fire area for the next several days as warmer temperatures and higher wind speeds return to the area throughout next week and pockets of interior fuels continue to consume.

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. 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