Okanogan County Washington Wildfires Burn Over 136,000 Acres

Two large wildfires are erupting in Okanogan County, Washington. The Ptarmigan Fire, ignited by lightning on July 15‑16 near the Canadian border, has burned roughly 10,878 acres on the western edge of the Pasayten Wilderness. No structures have been lost, no evacuations ordered, and crews are protecting nearby trails, including sections of the Pacific Crest Trail and Pacific Northwest Trail. A Type 3 Incident Management Team and about 72 personnel are assigned to the blaze.

The Kaiser Canyon Fire, also started by lightning, has expanded to about 126,000 acres and is only 16 % contained. More than 1,000 firefighters are battling the fire, which threatens homes along Highway 121 and has prompted evacuation orders for some residents. Red‑flag conditions are hampering containment efforts, and the fire is being actively monitored to prevent further spread toward populated areas.