Washington State continues to carry the heaviest active wildfire load of any state in the nation heading into the final days of September 2026. While recent rainfall moderated fire behavior statewide and prompted officials to lower the state’s preparedness level, seven large fires remain uncontained along the Cascade Range and in the state’s northeastern highlands, with crews working to secure perimeters before the next weather window.
Three Queens Fire: Low Containment Near Snoqualmie Pass
The Three Queens Fire remains the most concerning active incident near populated areas. As of the latest situation reports, the fire has burned 9,566 acres in the Cle Elum Ranger District of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and is only 23% contained. Numerous residences and critical infrastructure remain threatened.
Previously issued evacuation orders on the Three Queens have been lifted, but significant forest closures remain in effect across the Cle Elum Ranger District, including a closure of the Pacific Crest Trail between Snoqualmie Pass and Deception Pass. Recreationists and hikers are urged to check current closure information before traveling to the area.
Washington state fire meteorologist Matt Dehr noted that unusually dry conditions this summer left even lichens and mosses desiccated, creating conditions where an ember driven by wind could spark a new fire a mile from the flame front.
Sisi Fire: Threatening Remote Stehekin Community
The Sisi Fire, burning approximately 10 miles northwest of the remote community of Stehekin in Chelan County, is only 15% contained. Residences and energy infrastructure in this isolated Lake Chelan community remain at risk. Stehekin, accessible only by ferry, seaplane, or trail, presents significant logistical challenges for firefighting operations.
Border 2 Fire in North Cascades National Park
The Border 2 Fire in North Cascades National Park has burned 9,108 acres and reached 75% containment, approximately 20 miles northeast of Marblemount. The fire grew by 345 acres in recent days as crews continued suppression operations in rugged terrain near the Canadian border.
Other Active Washington Incidents
Additional large fires reported active in Washington as of the latest NIFC data include:
- Sinlahekin Fire: 166,000 acres, 77% contained — 12 miles west of Tonasket in Okanogan County
- Ptarmigan Fire: 25,166 acres, 73% contained — 20 miles northwest of Mazama
- Goat Fire: Active, details being updated
- Little Giant Fire: Listed in recent NIFC situation reports for the Northwest region
Community Recovery Efforts Underway
The 2026 fire season hit Washington communities hard. Approximately 67,000 people were placed under evacuation orders at the season’s peak in August, particularly around the Spokane area where multiple large fires converged. Community organizations including Asian community groups in the Northwest have been coordinating wildfire relief work and assistance for displaced residents.
State officials are urging residents to remain vigilant, noting that while conditions have improved, afternoon winds through Cascade gaps can still create dangerous fire-spread conditions. Anyone returning to previously evacuated areas should follow official guidance and check with local emergency management offices before re-entry.