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: 42

Fire Information: 360-208-8096

Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/wancp-ruby-fire 

Email: 2024.Ruby@firenet.gov

Current Status: Fire crews continue to work on the Ruby Fire. On Tuesday, one helicopter supported fire suppression efforts by collecting water from Diablo Lake and dropping it on critical hotspots. Yesterday, helicopter support was not possible due to weather, however the cooler and wetter conditions kept fire growth minimal. While fire activity on the Ruby Fire is currently nominal, the Pacific Northwest, as well as the nation remain at Preparedness level 5, the highest level of concern. Currently 24,518 wildland firefighters and support personnel are assigned to incidents nationwide. Many fire resources and personnel are deployed and geographic areas with active fires must take emergency measures to sustain incident operations. Panther Creek, Thunder Creek and Happy Creek trails remain closed as critical areas for firefighters to stage for fire suppression efforts. Motorists should use extra caution when traveling on State Route 20 (SR20) near Diablo Lake to avoid inhibiting active firefighting operations. 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 themselves and the public.

Weather: Cool and moist conditions will persist today with diminishing shower activity as a trough exits the area. Somewhat drier conditions are expected on Friday as a weak ridge slides across the area. Another weather system will produce wetting rains on Saturday. The weather pattern remains cool with potential showers into next week.

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 Thursday. Forecast at https://www.airnow.gov

Burning Restrictions: Currently, campfires, 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. On Friday, the park will lift fire restrictions: https://go.nps.gov/ban-lifted.

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.

Public Information 
Ruby Fire, North Cascades National Park
2024.ruby@firenet.gov