Crystal Mountain Resort is praying for rain after the Norse Peak Fire doubled in size this week to a whopping 43,482 acre wildfire.
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Just this past Monday, the Norse Peak Fire crossed the Pacific Crest Trail before entering the Crystal Mountain ski area boundary, a change that has since drawn additional firefighters to the ski area and forced evacuations.
Evacuation levels are escalating quickly ahead of the #NorsePeakFire. Residents should follow instructions if asked to leave. https://t.co/vWivLOisVD
— Norse Peak Fire Info (@NorsePeakFire17) September 5, 2017
Now the fire is threatening areas of Mount Rainier National Park with the White River Entrance and SR410 being closed for the time being. As of today, the Pacific Crest Trail is closed from Chinook Pass to Snoqualmie Pass.
“It’s very smoky at the resort and spot fires continue to burn north of the ski area. We are still under level 3 evacuation orders. We appreciate your continued concern and support. Many of you have asked how you can help. Thank you. The best thing you can do is stay out of the area. All of the FS roads along highway 410 are closed and access to the resort is still restricted. We are not out of the woods yet.” – Crystal Mountain Resort
373 personnel are currently fighting the fire, which is only 8% contained. Our thoughts are with those putting themselves at risk to keep homes and structures safe.
EVACUATIONS:
- In Yakima County, there is a Level 3 Evacuation Order for Goose Prairie along Bumping River Road.
- In Pierce County, a Level 3 evacuation has been ordered for the Silver Springs Campground, Silver Creek, Deep Creek, Joke Creek, Alta Community, Pick Handle Basin, Goat Creek, Gold Hill Community and the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort area.
Norse Peak Fire Update [Inciweb]
NORSE PEAK FIRE (43,482 acres): Crews completed work along the 462 Road in the fire’s southwest corner for use as a holding line and will continue work along State Route 410 to the south and southeast. One quarter-acre spot fire south of 410 was detected, contained and mopped up.
The western edge of the Norse Peak Fire continues to threaten structures in several communities in Pierce County and crews are working to get containment.