Fri Sep 13 19:56:00 UTC 2024: ## Ruby Fire Continues to Burn Northwest of Twisp, Costs Climb to $5 Million

**Twisp, WA** – The Ruby Fire, burning about 49 miles northwest of Twisp, continues to rage, growing to 1,300 acres and remaining uncontained as of Thursday afternoon. The fire, which began on August 9th, has already cost an estimated $5 million, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Despite efforts to contain the blaze, including water drops from helicopters on Tuesday, weather conditions forced a halt to aerial operations on Wednesday. Firefighters are now focusing on protecting critical infrastructure, such as campgrounds, SR 20, trails, and backcountry camps, in preparation for potential fire growth.

The Ruby Fire is one of several active wildfires in Washington state, with the Pioneer Fire, currently burning at 38,730 acres, being the largest and costing an estimated $105 million. Other notable fires include the Cougar Creek Fire (24,091 acres, 100% contained) and the Williams Mine Fire (13,057 acres, 31% contained).

While no new wildfires were reported on Thursday, the Columbia Basin remains under a very high fire danger. The Grant County Sheriff’s office has urged residents to be cautious and avoid activities that could spark a blaze.

Air quality in the Columbia Basin was good on Thursday, according to AirNow.

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