North Cascades Highway reopened, firefighting efforts continue

DIABLO, Wash. — The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has reopened the North Cascades Highway (SR20) as of 4pm on Thursday, July 18th. The highway was closed between mile posts 148 and 158 due to firefighting operations on the Easy Fire.

Firefighters responded to a new wildfire sparked by dry lightning storms moving through the Easy Pass area of the Methow Valley and immediately reported explosive fire growth and running crown fire into the evening. Crews stayed on the fire overnight but weeks of extreme temperatures, record dry conditions, and dangerous terrain with no road access hampered initial response efforts.

– U.S. Forest Service – Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest (July 18, 2024)

Officials with WSDOT advise motorists to be prepared for unexpected closures while firefighting efforts continue and to stay on the road.