Wildfire on Colville Forest 50 percent contained

An 85-acre fire burning on the Colville National Forest is about 50 percent contained, according to the Forest Service. A low pressure system is moving into the fire area today, bringing increased winds and increased humidity. While the cooler temperatures and increased humidity are welcome, increased winds will also pose a significant threat to firefighters due to snags blowing down and other overhead hazards, officials said. The Hungry Hill Fire is about 90 miles north of Spokane, near the Canadian border. It started Thursday evening when a helicopter pilot crashed just after lifting off with a load of logs. The pilot was hospitalized and is in good condition. Crews continue to work to contain the fire and extinguish hot spots further into the fire’s interior. About 146 firefighters were working on suppression efforts.