Containment for the Cold Creek Fire increased to 88% Thursday, with command of the fire turned over to the Naches Ranger District.
The fire started Sept. 14 near the White Pass summit. It was 564 acres, with minimal spread Thursday.
U.S. Highway 12 reopened Monday. Officials said traffic volume has returned to almost normal but drivers should still use caution with firefighters still working throughout the area. Standing trees, burnt trees and vegetation, and possibly even live flame will continue to be visible from the roadway. A total of 122 people were assigned to the fire on Thursday, down about 100 from the previous day as out-of-area crews headed to other fires or home to rest. Forest Service spokesperson Heather Appelhof said she doesn’t expect any more growth, despite a shifting wind mostly from the west predicted to
include gusts up to 25 mph on Thursday and 30 mph on Friday.