Photo: ERICK DOXEY / AFP / Getty Images
Twenty firefighters from Pennsylvania have been dispatched to Washington state to assist in combating one of the largest wildfires in the state's history. The team, organized by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), will join efforts to control the Sinlahekin wildfire, which has already burned over 152,921 acres and is only 37% contained.
The crew, consisting of foresters and equipment operators, gathered at the Penn Harris Hotel in Cumberland County before embarking on their journey early Friday morning (August 28). Led by crew boss Pete Zoschg, the team will travel approximately 2,500 miles to reach Tonasket, Washington, where they will spend two weeks battling the blaze. According to PennLive, the Sinlahekin fire is one of the top ten largest wildfires in Washington's history.
State Forester Seth Cassell emphasized the team's experience and adaptability, stating, "Our crews are adaptable and experienced, and we have all the confidence they're going to be able to safely fight the fires and contribute to helping people." Each firefighter is certified and equipped with high-performance, heat- and flame-resistant gear.
The decision to send the Pennsylvania crew comes as Washington remains under a statewide wildfire emergency, with conditions exacerbated by drought, extreme heat, and high winds. The firefighting efforts have already cost over $43 million, and approximately 1,600 firefighters are currently working to contain the fire.
Zoschg noted the unique challenges of fighting fires in Washington, including steeper terrain and different fuel types. Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt and succeed.
The Pennsylvania crew's deployment is part of a broader effort to provide assistance across state lines, with many members having previously fought wildfires in other states, such as Minnesota. The experience gained during these assignments is invaluable, offering "three-to-four years of experience in a two-week assignment," according to DCNR officials.