Due to more-accurate mapping of burned areas by ground resources, the Western Washington Type 3 Incident Management Team now estimates the total acreage of the Huckleberry Ridge Fire in the southwest corner of Lewis County to be 293 acres, fire personnel reported Sunday.
The fire is burning on Weyerhaeuser land 8 miles from the nearest structure and 11 miles from the closest community. No infrastructure is at risk and there are no evacuations or road or trail closures.
The fire is about 20 miles south of Pe Ell.
“As more crew and equipment arrive, we will continue to add more handlines and more dozer lines boxing in the fire,” the incident management team said Sunday. “The cooler weather overnight and lack of significant winds have helped with fire management. Crews are able to engage the fire in a more direct fashion.”
Thanks to a network of roadways through the fire area, fire personnel have created about 40% of the containment lines using existing roads and trails.
“We will continue to use air resources as the weather cooperates, including aerial views for more accurate mapping,” the incident management team stated.
Officials are asking the public to stay away from the area of the fire, which is about 20 miles south of Pe Ell. That includes hunters, the incident management team stated.
“Hunting season has started, and many people are out in the woods. Please be aware there are both firefighters and hunters in the woods right now. Use caution and stay vigilant,” the Incident Management Team said Sunday. “For anyone hunting, please stay out of the fire area and be aware there is substantial firefighting activity in the area with a lot of vehicle traffic.”
