Road 2620 Fire near Hood Canal, WA prompts statewide mobilization [Video]

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Wash. – The Road 2620 Fire is burning Mt. Jupiter, with smoke spreading through the Olympic National Forest and down to the banks of Hood Canal.

Local fire crews, working alongside the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), are trying to contain the growing blaze now threatening homes in the Duckabush area. The fire, first discovered around 5 p.m. Wednesday night, has already scorched 150 acres, growing from just 4 acres in less than 24 hours.

The Brinnon Fire Department reports that containment efforts are focused on creating fire lines along the backside of homes in Duckabush, with the help of heavy machinery on the ground and helicopters overhead. Fire Chief, Tim Manly says because of the remote location, aerial resources are a must. However, helicopters attempting to extinguish the flames on Thursday faced some serious limitations.

“The helicopters have to be able to see where they’re going, and this smoke is very thick,” explained Chief Manly. “Where …