Single Publication

Ruby Fire Quick Facts

Size: 1217 acres                         Location: North Cascades National Park, Ruby Mountain, Diablo, Washington

Containment: 0%                      Cause: Lightning/Natural

Start Date: August 9, 2024        Total Personnel: 54

Fire Information: 360-208-8096 

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

Current Status: Yesterday, activity on the Ruby Fire was minimal due to cooler temperatures and lower wind speeds.  Three helicopters supported fire suppression efforts by collecting water from Diablo Lake and dropping it over hot spots on the western edge of the fire. Additional growth on the eastern edge was reported. Smoke was present throughout the day. Firefighters are strategically placed around the fire to support suppression efforts if conditions change. Visitors should use extra caution when traveling on State Route 20 (SR20) near Diablo Lake to avoid inhibiting active firefighting operations. Do not stop and take photos until you are in a designated area that is safe to do so. The Thunder Arm portion of Diablo Lake and Colonial Creek South Campground are closed. 

Planned Actions: 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: Cool and moist weather over the Ruby Fire is expected through Wednesday with more cloud cover arriving from onshore flow off the Pacific. Today will be partly sunny with a high temperature of 68oF. Winds are expected to be light, west to northwest, with speeds of 6-8 mph.

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 Monday. 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.