The Hope Fire continues to burn actively near Northport, with no containment reported and acreage now estimated at 3,500 as of Wednesday evening. According to the latest update from the responding Incident Management Team, firefighters made progress today constructing firelines and protecting structures, but the blaze remains volatile.

A total of 277 personnel are assigned to the fire, including eight 20-person hand crews, 10 engines, three water tenders, and eight bulldozers. Aerial resources played a key role throughout the day, supporting ground crews working to slow the fire’s spread and secure the fire’s perimeter.

Crews focused heavily on the north end of the fire where homes and properties were under threat. Aggressive structure protection efforts were carried out in that area. Officials say night shift teams will remain in place to monitor conditions and maintain firelines overnight.

Despite the fire’s growth, evacuation levels and boundaries remain unchanged as of Wednesday evening. However, fire managers stated they will reassess the situation Thursday morning and may adjust evacuation notices depending on overnight fire behavior and weather conditions.

For those needing assistance, the American Red Cross has opened a shelter at Kettle Falls Middle School for displaced residents or anyone seeking a safe place to stay.

The fire is currently listed at zero percent containment, and officials urge residents to stay alert and be prepared for potential evacuation changes. The steep terrain, dry fuels, and hot weather continue to pose challenges for suppression efforts.

The cause of the Hope Fire remains under investigation.