The Little Giant Fire burning approximately 30 miles northwest of Leavenworth, Washington has grown to more than 24,360 acres with zero containment, prompting Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders for residents in portions of Chelan County. The fire, located on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, is being managed by a Complex Incident Management Team and is threatening numerous structures along the White River corridor.

Crews on the ground have shifted to defensive operations, focusing resources on protecting homes from Tall Timbers to Fish Lake. The fire is burning in steep, forested terrain with active fire behavior including group torching, flanking runs, and spotting — conditions that have made direct attack extremely difficult.

Evacuation Orders in Chelan County

Chelan County officials have issued Level 3 evacuation orders — meaning residents must leave immediately — for areas in the White River drainage northwest of Leavenworth. Additional areas are under Level 2 (Be Ready to Leave) and Level 1 (Be Aware) notices as the fire continues to threaten communities in the drainage.

Residents under Level 3 orders should not wait for additional notice. Those under Level 2 should gather essential documents, medications, and belongings and be prepared to leave on a moment's notice. Chelan County Emergency Management is coordinating with local and state agencies to support evacuees and provide shelter resources.

Fire History and Resources Assigned

The Little Giant Fire has been burning in challenging terrain in the northern Cascades, growing rapidly under persistent dry conditions and low relative humidity. Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue, Washington DNR, and the Complex Incident Management Team have all requested additional firefighters, equipment, and aircraft support as the fire continues to grow unchecked.

Earlier in the fire's progression, 182 personnel were assigned including hand crews, dozers, engines, and water tenders. That number has since increased as the California Complex Incident Management Team 2 — the same team also managing the nearby Dirty Face incident — coordinates the multi-agency response.

Sinlahekin and Ptarmigan Also Active

The Little Giant Fire is not the only dangerous fire burning in Washington. On the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest north of Conconully, the Sinlahekin Fire has burned more than 10,500 acres with zero containment after starting on a single Sunday afternoon — making it one of the fastest-growing fires in the state this season. Crews have established indirect dozer and handline to the east of the fire while working to prevent spread toward communities.

In the North Cascades, the Ptarmigan Fire at approximately 2,700 acres has been producing significant smoke impacts in the Methow Valley. Fire managers expect continued growth from this incident under the weekend's adverse weather conditions.

Staying Safe

  • Monitor Chelan County Emergency Management alerts at chelandem.org for current evacuation status
  • Do not return to Level 3 evacuation areas until officials give the all-clear
  • If you have horses or livestock, move them now under Level 2 orders — do not wait
  • Avoid the area around White River Road and all forest roads within the active fire perimeter
  • Washington DNR burn bans are in effect for most of eastern Washington

Conditions on the Little Giant Fire are expected to worsen this weekend as a dry cold front moves through the region, bringing strong winds and critically low humidity. Residents in adjacent communities should remain on high alert for potential evacuation order changes.