Kelly Mountain fire update

Republic, WA – Fire crews will finalize gridding and mop up operations today and will continue to disassemble and remove equipment from the lines. Tenders and a grader will be operating on N. Fork Trout Creek Road and Rose Valley Road. Yield to tenders and the grader on the road, use caution while driving in the area and respect the closed road sign at the Empire Sno-Park. The Incident Management Type 3 team will transfer operations back to the USFS Republic District tomorrow at 9 a.m. A huge thank you to the community, fire crews, supporting agencies and contractors for the success of this mission.

The Kelly Mountain Fire started at approximately 11 a.m. on August 11 and was a part of 11 lightning and storm-related fires reported in the Republic/Curlew/Toroda area.

Local resources from US Forest Service, Washington State Department of Natural Resources along with private contractors responded to the Kelly Mountain fire that grew rapidly due to strong winds and extremely dry conditions.

The fire is located south of Kelly Mountain, approximately 12 miles north of Republic. There are no structures or residences threatened at this time. Local road closures on North Fork Trout Creek Road are in place to ensure firefighter and citizen safety.

Citizen and firefighters safety is our number one priority. Citizens are asked to remain clear of the fire area.

Currently there are 63 personnel assigned to the fire. The fire is 85% contained.

Fire information and the incident command post is located at the Republic Elementary School in Republic. Fire information contact is Isabelle Hoygaard at (509) 385-3320.