Situation: The lightning-caused Mt. Tom Creek Fire is burning high on a remote mountain slope on the west side of Olympic National Park. The area is in steep, densely forested terrain approximately five miles west‑northwest of Mount Olympus. Backpackers first reported the fire on June 24th, the morning after a lightning storm swept through the area.
The fire is approximately six miles from the Hoh Rain Forest administrative site. The Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center, campground, and trails all remain open to the public.
Public and firefighter safety are the top priority as crews work to suppress this fire. Firefighter rappelers surveyed the area and determined that inserting crews directly from aircraft was not feasible. Type 1 and Type 2 helicopters dropped water buckets over the fire area to help suppress its spread. The fire is too far from potential landing zones and established trails that could serve as evacuation routes, making on‑the‑ground operations risky. Steep slopes, dense vegetation, and standing dead trees add further hazards for firefighters working in this rugged landscape.
Though high relative humidity and periodic precipitation may constrain fire behavior, they are unlikely to extinguish the fire.
Aviation assets will continue to be utilized for suppression efforts on the Mount Tom Creek Fire.
Smoke: Smoke may be visible from various locations on the Olympic Peninsula. Air quality can change quickly. For current smoke information, visit: https://fire.airnow.gov
Fire Restrictions: Olympic National Park implemented fire restrictions June 25th. Dispersed and backcountry fires are prohibited. Fires within established metal fire rings in developed campgrounds and picnic areas are exempt from this prohibition. Propane and gas stoves are allowed, if operated at least three feet away from flammable vegetation and forest litter.
Air Space Restrictions: A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place. 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
