Witnesses Sought As Fire Burns In Olympic National Park

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK — A wildfire that has burned dozens of acres near the picturesque Lake Crescent area of Olympic National Park was likely started by humans, according to fire investigators.

The East Beach Road Fire was first reported to park officials Wednesday and burned at least 63 acres by Thursday afternoon. While the fire's origin remains under investigation, early indications point toward a human ignition source, investigators said.

Anyone who was in the area on Wednesday afternoon, and noticed activity on the north side of East Beach Road, is asked to call a tip line at 1-888-653-0009.

According to the National Park Service, flames have burned primarily in heavy timber on a south-facing slope and have been pushed uphill by winds. Smoke is expected to be visible in the area in the coming days, accompanied by mostly dry and warm weather.

An "aggressive full suppression" strategy is in effect, fighting the fire from the air with helicopters and on the ground with wildfire engines and hand crews.

East Beach Road remains closed to non-residents between Highway 101 and the Log Cabin Resort. The Log Cabin Resort itself remains open, but visitors will need to use Highway 112 to Piedmont Road to reach the area. Day-use recreational sites along East Beach Road are closed to the public.

Updates on the fire can be found on the National Park Service website.