News Release

August 5 North Cascades Fires Update

News Release Date: August 5, 2026

Contact: Public Affairs Office

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. — The Border 2 Fire and Luna Fire experienced increased fire activity on August 3 due to hot and dry weather conditions. Yesterday, fire activity was moderate due to a heavy smoke inversion. Smoke across the area and hot and dry conditions are expected over the next few days. Cooler temperatures and cloud cover are predicted to return this weekend.
 
The Border 2 Fire (estimated 6,433 acres) experienced increased fire activity south towards Little Jackass Mountain. A heavy smoke inversion has limited aerial support. Firefighters completed defensive firing operations to protect structures in the Hozomeen area. The defensive firing operation is tied into the lake along the Silver Skagit Road. Crews are working to mop up around the values at risk utilizing sprinklers, hose lays, and a Type 6 engine. A Type 3 helicopter is available for aerial support utilizing aerial delivered water when conditions safely allow.

The Maine Type 3 Incident Management Team under Incident Commander Ben Goodwin has been assigned to manage the Luna Fire (estimated 1,400 acres). The team will continue suppression efforts and protecting critical values at risk. Luna Fire updates and news releases will be released by the Type 3 Team. To sign up for Luna Fire updates email [e-mail]. For additional information visit the Luna Fire inciweb page. 
 
Closures: For the Luna and Border 2 Fires, area, trail, and camp closures in place for public safety. For the full list of fire closures visit the park Fire Closures page.
 
Weather: Elevated fire weather through Friday this week. Cooler temperatures and cloud cover with no precipitation are expected over the weekend.
 
Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions are in effect beginning Monday, June 29. Campfires or the ignition of wood, briquettes, or any fuel in fire pits, fire pans, and barbeque grills, are banned in all portions of North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Gas or propane stoves, grills, or lanterns are permitted in campgrounds and wilderness areas for the use of cooking if there is no flammable material within three feet of the device. 
 
Smoke Outlook: Smoke is present with hot and dry weather conditions and increased fire behavior, with a smoke layer settling over the general area. Take precautions when recreating outdoors when heavy smoke is present. Individuals who are sensitive to poor air quality or those with respiratory problems may want to limit outdoor activities. Air quality can change quickly.  For current smoke information, visit: https://fire.airnow.gov.
 
Air Space Restrictions: A temporary flight restriction is in place for the fire area. Drones are prohibited in the area, especially during emergency fire response. If you fly, we can’t. Every time a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of this area: http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.
 

nps.gov
 

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