The Chiwaukum Creek fire burned aggressively Wednesday and by late afternoon had led to US 2 being closed between Leavenworth and Coles Corner. This closure was later moved further west to the summit of Stevens Pass.
The terrain is thick forest which gives the fire plenty of fuel.
Firefighting personnel was stationed earlier in the day at the Nason Creek Rest Area. Later they would begin to gather at the Lake Wenatchee State Airport.