The Little Giant Fire in Chelan County has grown to more than 170,784 acres as of Wednesday morning, surpassing the Sinlahekin Fire in Okanogan County to become the largest active wildfire in Washington State. Despite the efforts of hundreds of firefighters, the blaze remains only 49% contained.

Fire Origins and Rapid Spread

The lightning-caused fire ignited in late July on the Little Giant Trail in the upper Chiwawa River drainage of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, approximately 20–30 miles northwest of Leavenworth. What began as a remote wilderness fire quickly exploded during a stretch of extreme heat in early August, prompting Chelan County to declare a state of emergency on August 4.

By August 5, the air quality index (AQI) in Leavenworth had climbed to 849 — more than seven times the traditional index ceiling of 500 — forcing Washington's Department of Labor and Industries to shut down transit services under worker safety rules.

Current Situation

Fire managers report that crews have made progress on the eastern and southern flanks, but rugged terrain and active fire behavior continue to challenge containment efforts. At its peak, the Little Giant Fire threatened more than 6,000 structures in and around Chelan County communities including Plain, Lake Wenatchee, and communities along the Lake Chelan shoreline.

Firefighters are deploying a combination of aerial resources, direct suppression on accessible slopes, and indirect tactics in steeper terrain. Structure protection remains the top operational priority.

The Sisi Fire: Uncontained Near Stehekin

Complicating operations in the region is the Sisi Fire, burning northwest of Stehekin along Heather and Sisi ridges. The lightning-ignited fire, located approximately 10 miles northwest of Stehekin, remains at 0% containment.

Crews are focused on preventing the fire from moving west into the Cabin Creek drainage. Aircraft are being used to slow spread while ground crews install sprinkler systems around structures, clear vegetation along Stehekin River Road, and build containment lines. Active-duty U.S. military personnel have been integrated into firefighting operations in the area alongside international crews from Australia and New Zealand.

What Residents Should Know

Evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect for portions of Chelan County. Residents are urged to monitor official sources and heed all restrictions before returning to properties.

  • Daily updates: InciWeb (inciweb.wildfire.gov)
  • Emergency alerts: Chelan County Emergency Management
  • Air quality monitoring: AirNow.gov