PHOTOS: Cooler temperatures and increased humidity have helped moderate the growth of the Bear Gulch Fire on the east side of the Peninsula, but the blaze continues to pose a significant threat to structures and natural landmarks. As of Aug. 4, the fire has burned 4,936 acres and is only 3% contained. According to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, fire managers are focusing their efforts on protecting structures in the Copper Creek drainage, where firefighters are engaged in both day and night operations. East of the fire, crews are working along the 2419 road system to remove roadside brush and debris, creating a more defendable line should the fire advance in that direction.
In the Staircase area within Olympic National Park, fire personnel are using sprinkler systems, hose-lays, pumps, and brush clearing to protect structures. Crews successfully safeguarded the estimated 1,000-year-old Big Cedar Tree near the Staircase campground. South of the fire, west of the lake, firefighters are enhancing natural holding features to protect structures, timber, and other critical values. Helicopters are being deployed to cool fire edges with water drops when weather conditions and smoke levels permit safe and effective operations.
