Single Publication

Ruby Fire Quick Facts 

Size: 1300 acres Location: North Cascades National Park, Ruby Mountain, Diablo, Washington 

Containment: 0% Cause: Lightning/Natural 

Start Date: August 9, 2024 Total Personnel: 61 

Fire Information: 360-208-8096  

Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/wancp-ruby-fire Email: 2024.Ruby@firenet.gov 

Current Status: This past weekend’s red flag conditions contributed to slow but gradual fire growth, adding almost 100 acres. Monday, a helicopter supported fire suppression efforts by collecting water from Diablo Lake and dropping it over hot spots on the western edge of the fire, as well as the eastern edge of the fire north of Panther Creek. Smoke was minimal and air quality remained good throughout the day. Panther Creek, Thunder Creek and Happy Creek trails remain closed as these are critical areas for firefighters to stage for fire suppression efforts. Visitors should use extra caution when traveling on State Route 20 (SR20) near Diablo Lake to avoid inhibiting active firefighting operations. Slow down. Please do not stop on the road to watch helicopter and fire operations. The Thunder Arm portion of Diablo Lake and Colonial Creek South Campground are closed.  

Planned Actions: Today fire managers intend to utilize helicopters to conduct suppression efforts by strategically dropping water on the fire as needed. Firefighters will continue to focus on protecting critical infrastructure such as campgrounds, SR20, trails, and backcountry camps in preparation for possible fire growth. The Ruby Fire is a full suppression fire, and firefighters are using tactics with the highest chance for success, while reducing safety risks to firefighters and the public.  

Weather: Zonal flow aloft on Tuesday will promote increased onshore flow, morning cloud cover, and good humidity recoveries near the fire. The next system approaches the region and pushes inland on Wednesday and may bring a few showers to the area, with latest guidance suggesting a 10-20 percent chance of a wetting rain occurring within the vicinity of the fire. 

Closures: There are multiple closures in place for public safety: Colonial Creek South Campground and boat launch, Thunder Arm south of Diablo Lake, Happy Creek Trail, and area trails and camps. See all closures at https://go.nps.gov/fireclosures 

Smoke: Air quality is forecast to be GOOD on Tuesday. Forecast at https://www.airnow.gov  

Burning Restrictions: Campfires, the ignition of wood, briquettes, or any fuel in fire pits, fire pans and barbeque grills, are banned in all portions of North Cascades National Park Service Complex: North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area.  

Drone Restrictions: If you fly, we can’t. Drones can jeopardize firefighting efforts, and operating drones within North Cascades National Park is prohibited, except with prior written approval from the superintendent.   

Cooperating Agencies & Tribes: National Park Service, Upper Skagit Indian Tribe, Seattle City Light, Whatcom County, Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Dept. of Transportation, Washington DNR. 

To sign up for our daily updates, please send an email to: 2024.Ruby@firenet.gov  Thank you.