Submitted by Public Information Team
Estimated size: 8,257 acres
Containment: 3%
Start Date/Time: 07/06/2025 9:42 PM
Area of Origin: North side of Lake Cushman near Mount Rose in Olympic National Forest, Hoodsport, WA
Cause: Human-caused
Structures Damaged: 0
Fire Information Phone: 360.732.1813 (7 am – 7pm; voice only; texts will not be received)
Bear Gulch Firefighting Efforts Continue as Rainfall Brings New Debris Flow Concerns
Update: California Complex Incident Management Team 7, led by Incident Commander Tom Clemo, assumed command of the Bear Gulch Fire at 7:00 a.m. on August 15, 2025. Yesterday, the fire remained active on the northwest perimeter spreading further into drainages. Near the southern perimeter, west of Lake Cushman, crews continued structure protection and maintained sprinkler systems. Fire personnel were supported by helicopters with water drops on the fire’s edge. Approximately 1 inch of rainfall is expected over the next 24 hours. This raises concerns about potential debris flows from steep terrain, especially during this afternoon and evening. To prioritize firefighter safety, a tactical pause will occur in parts of the perimeter during this operational period. Crews will be strategically positioned in areas where they can operate with reduced risk. Helicopters and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) will remain available to provide support to firefighters on the ground and structure protection.
Fire Behavior: Fire activity is expected to reduce over the next 24 hours. Instances of rollout and snag fall will continue, with potential to spread the fire. Fire behavior is expected to decrease under cooler wetter conditions with a warming trend expected later in the week that may increase fire activity.
Weather: Mostly cloudy with measurable rainfall of up to 1.5” is forecasted over the next 24 to 48 hours. Highest rainfall amounts expected in the northern and western portions of the fire area. Lower amounts in the southern and eastern portions.
Smoke Outlook: Air quality can change quickly. Know your risk to wildfire smoke and plan to reduce exposure. For current smoke reports on the fire, please visit here.
Lake Closure: The southern half of the lake is open to recreation. The north half of the lake is closed to support the Bear Gulch suppression and evacuation efforts.
Fire Restrictions: All campfires will be prohibited in Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park. All outdoor burning is currently prohibited in Mason County.
Olympic National Forest Closures: There are many road, trail, and campground closures in the southeast portion of the Forest. For more information on closures and fire restrictions, visit here.
Olympic National Park Closures: There are extensive closures on the southeast corner of Olympic National Park. For more info on closures and fire restrictions visit here.
Evacuation Levels: The Bear Gulch Fire area near Dry Creek Trail is in a Level 3 “GO” evacuation. This includes the Staircase Campground and areas across the causeway on the north side of Lake Cushman. The area south of Dry Creek has a Level 2 “BE SET” evacuation notice. Follow Mason County Sheriff on Facebook for current evacuation information.
Level 1 – READY: Prepare a go kit for you, family, and animals. Clear areas around your home in advance. Know your escape routes. Sign up for Mason County Emergency Alerts here.
Level 2 – SET: Have your go kit on hand and ready. Ensure you, your family, and animals are ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Level 3 – GO: Grab your go kit. Load your family and animals and leave.
Air Space Restrictions: A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place over the Bear Gulch and Hamma Fires. 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. Learn more here.
How You Can Help: Our wildland fire crews are well-equipped and cared for. Creating defensible space around your home is the BEST thing you can do to help firefighters. Learn how here. Banners and signs boosting morale are also appreciated. Please confirm needs by contacting organizations of your choice before donating physical items.
Fire Investigation: Olympic National Forest is seeking tips for how the fire started on July 6. Members of the public with information are encouraged to contact the Forest Service Tipline by phone at 541-618-2154 or by email at SM.FS.R6TipHotLine@usda.gov. Tips submitted via email should have the subject, “Bear Gulch.” Learn more here.
Recreation Opportunities: Many recreation areas remain open. Learn more on the Explore Hood Canal website.
