Northeast Washington Fire Information

08/23/2026

Hill Loop Fire Update
August 23, 2026

Incident Commander: Shane Robson
Public Information Officer: Anjel Tomayko
Fire Information Line: 509-215-8583, 8 am – 8 pm

Quick Facts
Size: 133 acres
Location: 13 miles north of Kettle Falls, Washington
Start Date: August 20, 2026
Containment: 24%
Cause: Human, under investigation
Personnel: 150
Resources: 7 handcrews, 9 engines, 1 falling module, 2 dozers, 3 tenders
Priority: Firefighter and public safety

Yesterday, firefighters continued strengthening containment lines and mopping up along the fire’s edge. Crews were able to mop up 300 feet around structures. On the southwest portion, crews mopped up approximately 50 feet interior from the fireline, focusing on ash pits and other areas that can hold heat below the surface.

Thunderstorms moved through the area overnight, bringing numerous lightning strikes and rain. The rainfall was not enough to significantly affect planned suppression activities today. As temperatures rise, firefighters will also be available to respond to any new fires that may emerge.

Today’s objectives are to continue mop-up operations with a goal of 100 feet inside the fire perimeter. Due to steep, rocky terrain and limited access on the north end of the fire, water pumps and portable tanks are being set up to support suppression efforts. Specialized sawyers will be identifying and removing hazard trees that threaten the fireline. Crews will also continue monitoring areas around structures.

Evacuations: A Level 2 evacuation remains in place around the fire. Residents should remain prepared for changing conditions, follow directions from local officials and be ready to evacuate if conditions change. To sign up for alerts or view current evacuation information, visit: https://www.stevenscountywa.gov/20859/emergency-management

Road Closures: All road closures have been lifted.

Weather: A chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected today, with the strongest storms possible this afternoon. Storms could bring gusty winds and heavy rain that may briefly affect fire behavior. Winds will shift to the northwest this afternoon, with drier weather expected this evening.

Email: [email protected]
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/wanes-hill-loop

08/23/2026

08/23/2026

08/23/2026

08/23/2026

Hill Loop Fire Initial Update
August 22, 2026

Incident Commander: Shane Robson
Public Information Officer: Anjel Tomayko
Fire Information Line: 509-215-8583, 8 am – 8 pm

Quick Facts
Size: 127 acres
Location: 15 miles north of Kettle Falls, Washington
Start Date: August 22, 2026
Containment: 0%
Personnel: 120+
Cause: Under investigation
Priority: Firefighter and public safety

Northeast Washington Interagency Type 3 Incident Management Team 2 assumed command of the Hill Loop Fire at 9:45 am today. The fire is burning north of Hill Loop Road between Lodgepole Creek and 15 Mile Creek Road in Stevens County.

During the first two days of the fire, firefighters established and strengthened containment around much of the perimeter. Crews worked late into the first evening constructing handline along the south end, while dozer line was used along the east and west sides along with hoselays supported suppression efforts. Steep, rocky terrain continues to make access challenging on the north end.

Yesterday, crews continued strengthening containment lines, working hotspots and connecting existing dozer lines. Air resources, including two Type 2 helicopters and one Type 1 helicopter, supported firefighters during the afternoon.

Today, firefighters focused on keeping the fire within established containment lines and monitoring the perimeter for heat or increased activity. Crews continued strengthening lines and extinguishing hotspots as they were found.

Evacuations: A Level 2 evacuation remains in place around the fire. Residents should remain prepared for changing conditions, follow directions from local officials and be ready to evacuate if conditions change. To sign up for alerts or view current evacuation information, visit: https://www.stevenscountywa.gov/20859/emergency-management

Road Closures: All road closures have been lifted.

Weather: A Red Flag Warning remains in effect today, with wind the primary concern. Strong or shifting winds could increase fire activity and test containment lines. Aircraft remain available to support firefighters if needed.

Email: [email protected]

08/22/2026

08/22/2026