Resources grow as Second Creek fire continues

LEAVENWORTH – The Second Creek Fire is an estimated 64.1 acres with 20 percent containment as of 5 p.m. on May 28.

The fire started in Merry Canyon, eight miles north of Leavenworth, around noon on Memorial Day. The fire is human caused, but still under investigation. It has not caused any structural damage to date.

According to an update from Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) spokesperson Ryan Rodruck, an aerial infrared overflight using drone systems was used to retrieve an updated size estimate of 64.1 acres. More than 200 personnel are currently assigned to the fire, as air resources continue water drops and ground units construct and improve the line where the terrain allows. The Southeast Washington Type-3 Incident Management Team will assume command at 6 a.m. on May 29. Response teams are anticipating some precipitation and thunderstorms through Thursday afternoon.

An evacuation Level 1 (Be Ready) is still in effect for residences and structures surrounding Second Creek Road, northeast to the junction of the 7804 Road. Evacuation updates and information is available through Chelan County Emergency Management. 

The fire started on private property and spread to public forest land, and was estimated to be 5 acres when Chelan County Fire District #3 first arrived on the scene on May 26, according to Deputy Chief Mike Smith. The department quickly called in ground and aviation resources. By the end of the day, approximately 60 personnel were on scene, which included Chelan County Fire Districts 3, 6, and 9, as well as the U.S. Forest Service and WA DNR.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media