OKANOGAN COUNTY, Wash. — Evacuation levels have decreased to Level 1 in Okanogan County, but some road closures remain in place. Evacuations were previously in place on both the east and west sides of State Route 97 near the border of Oroville.
The fire, known as the Eagle Bluff Fire, has burned an estimated 16,428 acres as of Friday morning and is 80% contained. Fire crews are working to repair dozer lines and make further evaluations of needed repairs.
The fire also crossed the border into Canada where it burned over 2,100 acres, according to the British Columbia Wildlife Service. The total acreage burned across the U.S.-Canada border is over 12,000 acres.
As of Saturday, to the eastern and southern, crews will focus on the repair of dozer lines and make further evaluations of needed repairs. To the northwest, the fire spread potential remains high. Firefighters will be on patrol along the Loomis-Oroville Road and to the north toward the Nighthawk border crossing.
Rogue River Interagency Hotshots continue efforts to hold the line in check south of the Similkameen River. Task forces will be in the area in case any new fire starts.
There is still active firefighting in the region and aerial resources are in use when conditions allow. Boaters should be aware of helicopters dipping out of many lakes and ponds in the area and remain clear when operations are occurring.
So far, three buildings burned in the fire. OCEM believes the fire is man-caused, but is still under investigation.
State mobilization's been authorized for this fire, according to the Washington State Patrol.
Red Cross officials said assistance at the shelter will include food, cots and other urgent needs. However, they're encouraging evacuees to bring the following for each family member: prescription and emergency medication, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, important documents and other comfort items.
The Red Cross also recommends special items for children and infants, such as diapers, formulas & toys, should also be brought, along with other items for family members who may have other needs.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information is made available.
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