Crews are dealing with two more fires in North Cascades National Park. According to a recent press release from the National Park Service (NPS), both fires were confirmed on Wednesday.
NPS believes lightning strikes started the fires in North Cascades. Fortunately, recent humidity and light rain showers have helped to keep both fires moderately small.
Currently, the Arctic Fire is only about a quarter acre in size, but it has been difficult to reach due to steep, rugged terrain and high cliffs. There are currently no threats to the public, and this fire has not forced any closures.
Along with the Arctic Fire is the Neve Fire, which is also about a quarter acre. That fire is burning between Thunder Creek and the Fourth of July Trail. Fire crews are using a helicopter to attack that fire. While it has not created any closures yet, visitors to the park should check for updates as the Neve Fire is burning closer to popular recreation areas.
“Smoke conditions have lessened with the cooler weather but may increase with warm and dry temperatures,” the NPS wrote in a press release. “Take precautions when recreating outdoors when heavy smoke is present. Individuals who are sensitive to poor air quality or those with respiratory problems may want to limit outdoor activities.”
Recent Fires in North Cascades
Visitors to the area have been dealing with smoke in the area all week as a much larger fire, the Perry Fire, continues to burn. Recent updates suggest the fire is now more than 1,557 acres in size. The recent cooler weather and light rain have been helping to slow the burning.
North Cascades National Park is one of the least visited NPS sites in the country. It’s known for its rural setting and miles of trails in Washington State and sits along the Canadian border.