Washington Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Washington - July 11, 2026

Overview

Washington is experiencing an elevated fire risk due to a combination of early-season drying, lower-than-usual winter snowpack (which peaked at only around 50% of normal), and persistently hot, dry, and windy conditions. This combination of factors has led to potentially risky situations for wildfires across the state, particularly in Central and Eastern Washington. The current National Preparedness Level indicates that state and national wildland firefighting resources are heavily committed.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently multiple active fires in Washington, requiring significant state and national support to manage incident objectives. Rapid fire growth, dry vegetation, and gusty winds have prompted large emergency responses over the last 72 hours. Firefighters are working to aggressively contain these fires while also preparing for potential new starts, as the risk for new significant wildfires remains well above normal for this time of year.

Key Fires:
Chelan Hills Fire: Located in Douglas County near Orondo and Lake Chelan, this fire ignited on July 4 and has burned approximately 9,861 acres. It is currently estimated at 75% to 95% contained. The fire is burning in grass, timber, and ponderosa pine fuels. It has exhibited rapid growth driven by strong winds and red-flag conditions, resulting in over 100 structures destroyed and one civilian fatality. Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders have been in place for the McNeil Canyon area, and crews are currently focused on reinforcing fire lines and conducting safety and damage assessments.

B and O Fire: First reported on the afternoon of July 9, this emerging incident is located 1 mile southwest of Okanogan. It has quickly grown to 1,400 acres and is 0% contained. The fire is fueled by brush and grass, exhibiting active fire behavior with running and wind-driven runs. Numerous structures are threatened, and evacuations, area closures, and road closures are currently in effect.

Ryegrass Coulee Fire: Sparked on July 8 in Kittitas County, about 1.5 miles west of Vantage. This fire has burned approximately 500 acres of grass and brush. Thanks to a rapid multiagency response, fire behavior is currently minimal, and crews are working to ensure the perimeter remains secure.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: To mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfires, utility crews and land management agencies have been actively conducting vegetation management, including trimming overgrown tree limbs near power lines to prevent utility-sparked fires. Additionally, statewide burn bans and strict campfire restrictions are in effect across multiple jurisdictions to prevent human-caused ignitions during this highly vulnerable period.
Air Quality: Smoke from active fires, particularly the Chelan Hills and Ryegrass Coulee fires, is impacting local air quality. Strong westerly winds are pushing smoke eastward, leading to intermittent smoke impacts in the Columbia Basin and eastern Washington. Residents downwind should monitor real-time air quality alerts and keep windows and doors closed if smoke levels rise.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Conditions are currently clear with temperatures in the mid-50s during the morning, but persistently dry. Humidity levels remain low, which is a continuing concern for fire fuels.
Forecasted Weather: A warming trend is expected heading into the weekend, with temperatures forecast to climb into the 80s. Red flag warnings are typically issued during these periods of increased fire risk, as the eastern slopes of the Cascades continue to dry out rapidly. Strong westerly winds are expected to persist, which could fan existing flames and push smoke further east.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are advised to strictly adhere to all burn bans and evacuation orders. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place, prepare a "go bag," and clear dead brush from properties to create defensible space and reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters are working under challenging conditions with resources stretched across the Pacific Northwest. Agencies are prioritizing the protection of life and property while continuing fuel mitigation projects in high-risk areas.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR): dnr.wa.gov/wildfires

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.