KCHW NEWS REPORTS

Firefighters battling the Hope Fire northeast of Colville continue to make significant progress, with containment now at 75% and the total acreage holding at 7,880. As of this morning, 403 personnel remain assigned to the fire, with public and firefighter safety as the top priority.

On Sunday, crews successfully carried out burnout operations near 1520 Leal Road in the northwest corner of the fire, removing unburned fuels and strengthening both direct and indirect control lines. Work along the southern and eastern perimeters also progressed well, with firefighters extending the black line up to 150 feet inward and finding minimal hotspots. Crews have now begun erosion mitigation and expect to transition to light patrol duties in those areas by midweek.

Today, focus shifts to the north-northwest section of the fire, where rugged terrain is slowing progress. Firefighters are working to secure fire lines and mop up remaining hotspots using systematic grid tactics. Crews are also continuing structure patrols throughout the fire zone.

Weather conditions are warming and drying, with highs near 89°F and northwest winds gusting up to 15 mph this afternoon. These conditions are expected to peak Thursday.

Evacuations remain in place, and updated information is available through Stevens County Emergency Management on Facebook. Road closures include Lael Road, Crown Creek Road, Northport Flat Creek Road, and other routes in the affected area.

Officials urge the public to avoid the area and keep roads clear for emergency responders. Hikers, campers, and drivers should remain alert for drifting smoke, fire crews, and equipment. Please stay clear of active areas, particularly 1520 Lael Road and the 200 block of E. Fork Crown Road, to allow safe completion of fire operations.

For the latest updates, visit the InciWeb page at inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/wanes-hope-fire, call 509-219-9554, or email 2025.hope@firenet.gov.