The Sisi Fire continues to burn in rugged terrain northwest of Stehekin, Washington, with a Level 1 “Ready” evacuation warning remaining in effect for portions of the remote Lake Chelan community. As of October 4, the fire had burned 4,352 acres and was only 29% contained — the least-contained large fire still active in Washington State.

Fire Location and Behavior

The Sisi Fire is located on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, approximately 10 miles northwest of Stehekin in Chelan County. The fire is burning in a mix of timber and dormant brush, exhibiting minimal fire behavior characterized by smoldering, creeping, and backing. Despite the relatively low-intensity behavior, the terrain and fuel conditions have made full containment challenging.

The fire shares incident management with the larger Little Giant Fire. A Complex Incident Management Team (CIMT — NW Team 12) is overseeing both incidents. The fire information line for both fires is 509-776-6953.

Evacuation Warning

A Level 1 “Ready” evacuation warning has been in effect since September 27 for the Stehekin community. The warning covers the area from Harlequin Campground up-valley to just west of High Bridge Campground.

A Level 1 warning means residents should:

  • Be aware of the danger and monitor local information sources
  • Prepare evacuation plans and gather essential items
  • Be ready to leave quickly if conditions change or the warning is upgraded

Stehekin is accessible only by ferry, floatplane, or a long trail from the national park, making evacuation logistics particularly complex. Residents with mobility limitations or special needs are strongly encouraged to begin making plans now.

Area Closures

Area, road, and trail closures are in effect in the vicinity of the Sisi Fire. Visitors planning trips to the Lake Chelan area, Glacier Peak Wilderness, or the North Cascades should check with the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest before traveling. Recreation closures may affect both forest and National Park Service lands in the burn area.

Outlook

With fall weather settling into the North Cascades and fuel moisture levels improving, fire managers are cautiously optimistic about increasing containment in the coming weeks. However, the remote terrain and persistent smoldering in heavy fuels mean full containment may still take time. Residents and visitors should monitor official updates from the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and Chelan County Emergency Management.