Apple Acres Fire Traffic Update

Request has been made to close Highway 97 from Highway 97A (below Chelan Airport) to SR 153 (Methow River Bridge @ Pateros). Apple Acres Fire is reportedly nearing Highway 97 in the area of Wels Dam.

Additional fire units will be enroute to the Apple Acres Fire for 3rd Alarm Response. Please yield to responding fire resources.

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Apple Acres fire is growing and has now crossed into Okanogan County per radio traffic. It is also reported to be moving toward highway 97.

Road closures and level 1 evacuation notices have been issued in the area of the Apple Acres Fire. Apple Acres Road is closed to traffic at Highway 97 on the north side and Apple Acres Road and Antoine Creek Road on the south side. Radio reports also indicate that highway 97 may be closed in the fire area, near Wells Dam, as the fire nears the highway.

Emergency response is still incoming from area districts. Aircraft is currently on scene also. Command post is being moved from Apple Acres Road to Wells Dam at this time.

Please stay out and away from the fire area and yield to emergency vehicles. Plan ahead and if traveling near the fire area, it may be necessary to utilize alternate routes as closures may impact travel on highways and roads.

Updates may also be available on local media sources or on the ‘Watch Duty’ app. Road closures can be found on Washington State DOT website, or Chelan County Emergency Management Facebook page.