Holden Village under Level 2 evacuation as Martin Fire grows

HOLDEN VILLAGE — Evacuation warnings for Holden Village were elevated to Level 2 on Thursday, as the 60-acre Martin Fire burns two miles northwest of the area.

The fire, located in the Glacier Peak Wilderness, was first reported Wednesday morning. According to the U.S. Forest Service, two 20-person crews responded along with two helicopters, rappelers, and air attack personnel. A Level 1 evacuation notice was issued for Holden Village that afternoon, and elevated the next morning.

The advisory for Holden Village includes the Rio Tinto Mine water treatment plant, but does not include Lucerne. According to Chelan County Emergency Management, people located in the affected area should prepare to leave immediately, as there is a significant danger to the area. This means packing essential belongings, including a go-kit with important documents, medications, and toiletries. Authorities advise those with mobility issues, small children, or large animals to evacuate now, as they may need more time. Updated evacuation levels can be found on the Chelan County Emergency Incidents page.

In an Aug. 27 update, the U.S. Forest Service reminded recreationists that forest-wide campfire restrictions are in effect, and to use caution with any activity that might cause a spark.

“Firefighting resources are committed to  many wildfires burning throughout the west, please do not add any human-caused wildfires to the mix,” the U.S. Forest Service wrote.

Recreationists were also asked to keep away from aerial resources, such as helicopters and scoopers, utilizing local lakes and rivers as a water source for firefighting suppression efforts. 

Hiker are advised to stay off the Holden Lake Trail #1252 and Martin’s Ridge Loop. The Pacific Crest Trail is currently six air miles from the fire and remains unthreatened.

The fire comes as heat advisories and red flag warnings went into effect throughout the Pacific Northwest region this week, noting lightning and dry, breezy conditions in high to extreme fire danger forest land.

Lightning storms ignited two fires in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest: the Martin Fire and the 50-acre Wildcat Fire burning in the William O. Douglas Wilderness area, about 34 miles northwest of Naches, WA. Approximately 60 personnel are assigned to the Wildcat Fire, along with two helicopters and air attack resources.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media