The forecast is hazy, literally, with little rain on the horizon to dampen wildfires. In Western Washington. In mid-October.
The highway was blocked off earlier this week as the fire spread.
The highway was closed from the Money Creek tunnel to Skykomish, mile posts 46 to 50.
The earlier-than-expected reopen date comes two weeks after the wildfire erupted north of Skykomish.
The move comes two weeks after the fire north of Skykomish prompted the highway to close.
Smoke flooded the Skykomish and Snoqualmie river valleys Monday, as winds shifted.
Heat plus spark times wind times fuel equaled a 9,440-acre wildfire. Record heat made the Cascades ripe for a fire like Bolt Creek.
Baring and Grotto residents can return home, but all are asked to stay vigilant and be cautious as new hazards emerge.
Trees and boulders could come down on steep hillsides scarred by fire. Rain could increase threats by loosening soils.
The highway will remain closed through the weekend. There is no firm reopening date.
It has been a stressful week for animals and their owners, who are looking forward to going home as the fire gets under control.
The fire’s size remained unchanged Wednesday at 9,400 acres. Officials said the cause had yet to be determined.
The Bolt Creek fire was up to 9,400 acres, with 5 percent contained. Evacuation orders were downgraded as weather and winds shifted.
Unhealthy air prompted the first wildfire-related closure in Sultan. Power was cut to Index, where students were told to evacuate.
Shifting winds and rain showers will likely lower the risk for homes in Index. Rocks have toppled on U.S. 2.
Evacuation orders remained in place. Only 50% of residents asked to leave had gone, according to the sheriff’s office.
Evacuations were mandatory from Index to Skykomish. In 12 hours, it grew to an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 acres, shutting down U.S. 2.
