Thunderstorms overnight ignited multiple new fires across the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest — from the northern Methow Valley Ranger District down to the Cle Elum Ranger District along I-90.

Forest crews and partner agencies are actively responding to these new starts with an aggressive initial attack to fully suppress fire growth. Of note is the Taneum Creek Fire. The photo below was taken today, August 13, 2026.

Taneum Creek Fire
• Size: 21 acres
• Location: South of Cle Elum and I-90, in the Taneum Creek drainage, northeast of Taneum Junction Campground
• Response: A strong initial attack is underway with engines, crews from the Forest Service and Washington DNR, and three helicopters. Resources are also being shared from the Three Queens Fire.
• Status: We expect crews have the fire fully lined by the end of shift tonight. However, forecasted winds later today could affect containment.

Lightning is expected this evening. Air resources are currently patrolling for new starts, and smoke reports continue to come in.

We will share updates as conditions evolve. Thank you for your awareness and cooperation as crews work to keep these fires small.

(Forest Service photo by Callen Wilkens)

Update: 8/13/2026 09:58: AQI 256 AND RISING

WILDFIRE SMOKE & AIR QUALITY | What Does It Mean for You? 🚒

🚨 TODAY’S AIR QUALITY: AQI 237 — VERY UNHEALTHY 🚨

According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, Cle Elum is currently experiencing an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 237, which falls in the VERY UNHEALTHY range.

With fires burning around us, smoke is something we’ll continue to see here in Cle Elum—and potentially throughout our travels across Washington.

The Cle Elum Fire Department wants to take a moment to talk about air quality and what it means for you and your family.

📸 The photos accompanying this post were taken by Cle Elum Fire Department PIO J. Peterson while traveling across the state last week. They capture just how dramatically wildfire smoke can affect visibility and the appearance of the sky and landscape. The photos were taken in areas where the AQI ranged from 154–266.

📊 What does the AQI mean?

🔴 151–200 | UNHEALTHY
Everyone may begin to experience health effects. Sensitive groups may experience more serious effects.

🟣 201–300 | VERY UNHEALTHY
The risk of health effects is increased for everyone.

😷 MASKS AVAILABLE FOR THE COMMUNITY

Our Cle Elum Vol Firefighters Association is working with the American Red Cross today to obtain masks for community members who need or would like one. We’ll share more information as it becomes available regarding distribution.

🌲 When smoke is heavy:
• Limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity.
• Keep windows and doors closed when possible.
• Use your HVAC system or an air purifier with appropriate filtration, if available.
• Consider wearing a properly fitted N95 respirator if you need to be outside in heavy smoke.
• Check current AQI and smoke conditions before spending extended time outdoors.
• Pay particular attention to children, older adults, and anyone with heart or lung conditions.

Smoke conditions can change quickly, and clear skies in one location don't necessarily mean the air is healthy.

Our firefighters are out there responding when you need us. In the meantime, we encourage everyone to stay informed, reduce your exposure when air quality is poor, and look out for your neighbors. ❤️

🚒 Cle Elum Fire Department
Stay safe. Stay informed. Breathe easier.

#CleElumFireDepartment #WildfireSmoke #AirQuality #AQI #SmokeSafety #WildfireSafety #KittitasCounty #CleElum #StaySafe

Smoky Skies Across Upper Kittitas County

If you’ve noticed hazy skies or the smell of smoke this morning, you’re not alone. Smoke from several wildfires burning across Washington is impacting air quality throughout our region.

Air quality can change quickly depending on fire activity and shifting winds, so it’s important to stay informed and take steps to protect your health.

If smoke is affecting your area:
• Stay indoors with windows and doors closed when possible.
• Run air conditioning on recirculate or use a HEPA air purifier if available.
• Limit strenuous outdoor activities, especially if you have asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions.
• Keep an eye on children, older adults, and anyone with underlying health conditions, as they are more sensitive to smoke.

Before spending extended time outdoors, check current air quality conditions using the EPA’s Fire and Smoke Map:
https://fire.airnow.gov/

Remember—conditions can vary significantly, even within a few miles. Checking current air quality before heading outside can help you make informed decisions and protect your health.

Stay safe, stay informed, and continue to monitor official sources for updates.