Home / Disasters and Accidents / Okanogan Fire Explodes: 53K Acres Burn Uncontained
Okanogan Fire Explodes: 53K Acres Burn Uncontained
20 Jul
Summary
- Kaiser Canyon fire grew to 53,321 acres with zero containment.
- More than 1,000 people displaced, 800 structures threatened.
- Nespelem town intact but surrounded by flames less than 2 miles away.
A significant wildfire, known as the Kaiser Canyon fire, has erupted in Okanogan County, Washington, consuming 53,321 acres with no containment achieved as of Sunday. The blaze ignited Thursday morning near Nespelem on the Colville Reservation, driven by lightning strikes, flashy fuels, and strong winds.
Over 1,000 residents have been displaced, and 800 structures are under threat. The town of Nespelem remains intact but is surrounded by flames less than two miles away. Ten structures have already been destroyed, though no injuries were reported Saturday.
Approximately 500 personnel are deployed, focusing on structure protection and containment line construction. Level 3 "go now" evacuation orders are active for Buffalo Lake Road, Rebecca Lake, Belvedere, Nespelem, and the Columbia River Campground. Highways and roads, including state Route 155 and Cache Creek Road, are closed.
Dry, hot, and windy weather conditions are expected to persist, potentially accelerating fire spread. A new incident management team will assume command of the fire on Monday.
