Elk Fire update (as of 2:10 p.m. Oct. 25) (2024)

Table of Contents
All evacuation notices lifted for Elk Fire _______________________________________________ Elk Fire containment jumps to 58% as precipitation falls Elk Fire containment steady at 51% Elk Fire containment increases to 51% Elk Fire containment remains steady Crews pulled off mountain, await return of dry conditions Wednesday marks possible last night shift on Elk Fire, precipitation predicted Elk Fire exceeds 92K acres consumed Air quality alert remains Monday evacuation map stands Elk Fire continues to grow WYDOT opens portions of U.S. 14 and U.S. 14A previously closed due to Elk Fire Fire wall part of controlled burn Fire crosses Big Goose Creek Firefighters targeting areas of Elk Fire, increase in activity Mental health services available for community Fire activity increased Tuesday night Road closures extended More than 800 personnel fighting fire Road closures extended Lightning confirmed start Fire start confirmed lightning Weekend weather increases fire acreage, 10% containment accomplished Elk Fire now near 73,000 acres Fire at 76,000 acres now Two homes lost in Elk Fire Saturday morning update Current situation (as of 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5) Fire moves rapidly overnight (7 a.m. update) Take caution with certain activities Air quality alert issued for Sheridan County Friday evening fire activity update (10 p.m. Oct. 4) Munsick begins fire relief fund Gov. Gordon provides state support for Elk Fire Mule Deer Foundation raising funds for wildfire ravaged northern Wyoming Friday afternoon fire activity update City takes actions to protect treatments plants Full crews prepare for heavy activity Friday, into weekend All hands on deck Red flag warning issued Crews prepare Thursday for weekend New evacuation areas issued Air suppression efforts continue Friday Make room for emergency response on roads Sheriff issues new evacuation statuses Fire consumes nearly 50,000 acres Access closed to community trailheads Bighorn National Forest extends closure to north of Red Grade Sibley fire confirmed as part of Elk Fire All schools on the Tongue River side of district to be closed Oct. 3 Town of Dayton in "ready" pre-evacuation order Fire exceeds 32,000 acres burned Highway 14 still closed Fire impacts one firefighter, six buildings Larger crew assumes management Students remain online Wednesday Community support UPDATE: 5:15 a.m. Oct. 2 UPDATE: 12:38 a.m. Oct. 2 UPDATE: 11:45 p.m. Oct. 1 UPDATE: 5 p.m. Oct. 1 Fire exceeds32,000acres burned Larger crew assumes management Students return to in-person learning Wednesday Community support UPDATE: 8:38 a.m. Oct. 1 Tongue River High School closed Tuesday

All evacuation notices lifted for Elk Fire

The Sheridan CountySheriff’s Officeannounced Friday that all evacuation statuses related to the Elk Fire have been lifted. No areas within Sheridan County remain under any form of evacuation.

Several roads will remain closed to ensure the safety of local residents and ongoing firefighting efforts. The following roads are restricted to local residents and fire personnel only: Twin Creek Road at Parkman access; Smith Creek Road, closed at the dry weather road; Tongue Canyon Road at the Amsden Creek Road intersection; Amsden Road; Little Goose Canyon Road; and PK Lane at the intersection of Beckton Road.

Additionally, Red Grade Road at the winter closure is still under a hard closure, meaning that only fire personnel are permitted in these areas. For the safety of the public, both vehicles and pedestrians are prohibited from accessing this location due to heavy fire equipment in operation.

Sheridan County will no longer be issuing daily fire updates unless there are changes to road closures or other significant developments.

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Elk Fire containment jumps to 58% as precipitation falls

Containment on the Elk Fire increased from 52% Thursday to 58% Friday. The total acreage of the lightning-caused fire currently sits at 96,935 acres on Friday morning, a small jump from 96,370 acres as of Thursday. The small increase in acres is due to more accurate mapping, not fire growth.

Yesterday, lower elevations received up to a quarter inch of rain while higher elevations received 1-3 inches of snow. These moist conditions resulted in slick and muddy roads, presenting an increased hazard to firefighters. Despite road conditions, firefighters made progress increasing containment as fire activity continued to be minimal. On contained fireline, suppression repair operations were completed on the north side and additional progress was made on east side dozer lines. Heavy equipment operations also continued strengthening indirect firelines.

Today will begin a warming and drying trend expected to last through Sunday, allowing for accelerated progress as roads dry out and the possibility for fire activity increases. Several recent precipitation events across the fire over the last week have kept fire activity low as fine fuel moistures were high. With predicted weather, these fine fuels will dry out, allowing fire activity to pick up slightly. Smoldering and creeping is also likely in heavy fuels (trees and logs) where moisture levels are low and heat has been retained. Firefighters will continue to focus on suppression repair supported with heavy equipment across several divisions while also securing uncontained firelines.

Across the fire area, temperatures will rise more than 10 degrees from Thursday and will be in the upper 40s at higher elevations and range from 65-75 degrees in lower elevations. Humidity will be in the 30-40% range and winds will be light. Fire activity will be minimal with some smoldering Friday, but the fire will generally be struggling to burn due to retained moisture from yesterday’s precipitation.

Given firefighter progress made on suppressing fire activity, predicted future weather, fuel moistures and lateness of the season, it is unlikely the Elk Fire will grow significantly. Over the next few days, fire managers will begin taking steps to align the firefighting workforce with expected fire behavior and the remaining work. This will include releasing some resources and transitioning to local leadership while ensuring continuity of objectives and actions.

A community meeting is planned for 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28, at the Sheridan Junior High School, located at 500 Lewis Street. The meeting will be recorded and posted to Facebook and virtual connection will be available through Facebook live streaming at:https://www.facebook.com/bighornnf.

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Elk Fire containment increases slightly

Containment of the Elk Fire grew slightly from 51% on Wednesday to 52% on Thursday morning. The lighting-caused fire remains at 96,370 acres.

As expected, fire activity remained consistent with the past few days with no perimeter growth due to elevated humidity and recent precipitation. Firefighters took advantage of these conditions by continuing indirect fireline construction, extinguishing areas of heat on fire edges, and conducting suppression repair operations.

Today, fire behavior will once again be sluggish due to high humidity, cloud cover, foggy conditions, and precipitation. Due to wet slick road conditions, firefighters will use extra caution as they continue work of the last several days. This will include building toward further extension and strengthening of uncontained firelines while also focusing on suppression repair. The bulk of heavy equipment resources will be working to establish fireline along the southwestern edge by creating defensible space on the Red Grade Road and Forest Road 26.

Overnight, humidity was approximately 100% as much of the fire received some rain or snow. These conditions will persist through this morning with afternoon temperatures warming above 50 degrees, humidity remaining high and light winds with gusts about 20 mph. Today, fire activity will remain minimal throughout the day due to the increased moisture levels. On Friday and over the weekend, weather will warm and dry promoting burning with some visible smoke. Another front will move through early next week.

SUBHED: Assessment team developing soil burn severity map

The Elk Fire Burned Area Emergency Response assessment team has been working within the Elk Fire perimeter to evaluate conditions to determine the level of potential risks to human life, safety, property, critical natural and cultural-heritage resources on National Forest System Lands.

The team will generate a soil burn severity map using a Burned Area Reflectance Classification map from satellite imagery and field surveys that ground truth the map.

The Elk Fire BAER team is comprised of soil scientists, hydrologists, geologists, botanists, recreation and trail specialists, engineers, archaeologists and geographic information specialists. Some are local and some have traveled here to assist.

Once their evaluations are complete, the team will determine if there are measures that can be implemented in a timely manner to reduce unacceptable risks due to post-fire conditions such as potential flooding and debris flow events.

The team’s findings and recommendations to the Forest Supervisor will be presented in a final report. The report identifies immediate and emergency actions needed to address potential post-fire risks to human life and safety, property, cultural heritage and critical natural resources on National Forest System lands.

SUBHED: Temporary access to Elk Fire closure

Agency Administrators in coordination with the incident management team have developed a process to allow owners of recreational equipment such as campers to retrieve their personal property. To gain access to the closure area for this purpose, the following form must be filled out:forms.office.com/g/P7vrvgQW5d. The form will close at 9 am on Oct. 25.

Those needing access along Red Grade Road to retrieve their property must enter the Bighorn National Forest from the east, near Big Horn but must exit west on Red Grade Road 26 to Highway 14. No trailers will be allowed to travel down Red Grade Road toward Big Horn.

Areas near active fire zones will have restricted access. Please follow all instructions given by fire personnel or law enforcement officers. Road hazards may be present in and around the burn areas, including debris, fallen trees or overhanging branches. Use caution when driving and check your overhead clearance for obstacles.

Hunting and overnight stays are strictly prohibited within the forest closure area.

This may be the only opportunity to retrieve recreational vehicles or campers before winter and the forest area may remain closed through the winter.

Additional details regarding entry into the area, including timing of entry and process, will be emailed to those who will be allowed into the closure area.

SUBHED: Other news

The Elk Fire Incident Command Post's move to the Sheridan County Fairgrounds will be completed today allowing for a centralized location in closer proximity to ongoing work. Motorists are reminded to drive with caution, follow posted speed limits, and be alert for firefighters traveling and working along roads. This includes U.S. Highway 14 where motorists should also expect travel delays as repair work is ongoing.

US Highway 14 between Burgess Junction and Dayton is open, although restrictions are in place for some commercial vehicles based on weight and size. Red Grade Road and County Road 89 from Dayton to Beckton Junction are closed. County Road 335 is closed from the intersection of County Road 335 and Brinton Road to the west. Additional closure information may be obtained atwyoroad.info.

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Elk Fire containment steady at 51%

Elk Fire containment stayed steady from Tuesday to Wednesday. As of Wednesday morning, containment is still at 51%, and the lightning-caused fire's total acreage remains at 96,360.

Snow from the recent weather system has mostly melted away, except in some areas with north-facing slopes and dense canopies. It will be slightly warmer and drier Wednesday, in between successive cold fronts, but good overnight humidity recovery continues.

Lighter winds, with a prevailing southwest direction for higher elevations, are expected. An overnight cold front will bring higher humidity and potential for light rain/snow showers before sunrise Thursday, along with a return of northwest winds. Wednesday’s fire behavior is expected be minimal and limited to creeping and smoldering with no fire growth expected.

Risk was decreased by Tuesday’s colder temperatures, light precipitation and high relative humidity. However, pockets of heavy fuels continue to burn inside the fire perimeter.

Good progress is being made on suppression repair work along the eastern side of the fire. All suppression repair is being conducted in coordination with Resource Advisors from the local area.

U.S. Highway 14 between Burgess Junction and Dayton reopened Wednesday morning with reduced speed limits and truck traffic prohibited. There are firefighters and highway repair crews working along the highway. The Wyoming Department of Transportation asks that drivers obey speed limits and drive cautiously. Consider avoiding the area entirely if you don’t have to be there.

The highway may be congested by firefighter traffic, highway repair work, and public use. Please minimize stopping and don’t block side roads so that firefighters can get to their assignments.

There continue to be closures on Red Grade Road and County Road 89 from Dayton to Beckton Junction. County Road 335 is closed from the intersection of County Road 335 and Brinton Road to the west.

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Elk Fire containment increases to 51%

Elk Fire containment increased for the first time since Friday, with containment at 51% as of Tuesday morning.

The lightning-caused fire is currently at 96,360 acres with 540 people responding.

Snow from the recent weather system has mostly melted away, except in some areas with north-facing slopes and dense canopies. A drying trend has led to reduced fuel moisture; however, pockets of heat still persist, resulting in creeping and smoldering fire behavior. Individual trees are igniting occasionally due to ladder fuels extending into the tree canopy.

A couple of weak disturbances later in the week will displace the high-pressure system that’s been hovering over the fire. On Tuesday morning, there is a 20% chance of measurable rain, ushered in by some 20-25 mile per hour winds before the front. This should decrease the temperatures, shift the winds to northwesterly and improve minimum relative humidity levels.

It will warm up a little Wednesday before the next front comes through that evening. That front brings a 20% chance of wetting rain across the fire with cooler temperatures.

The cloud cover expected Tuesday will minimize fire activity; however, firefighters are aware flareups could be seen where the expected winds align with fuels and topography.

Steep terrain and heavy dead and down timber within the fire area continue to make it difficult for firefighters to safely engage the fire. Remnants of snow remain in some of the shaded areas and northern facing slopes; however, a gradual drying pattern continues. Fire personnel were busy yesterday doing prep work to make potential firelines more defensible and repairing previous suppression lines.

The Elk Fire Incident Command Post will be moving this week to the Fairgrounds in Sheridan. There may be more firefighter traffic on the highways as a result. Please drive with caution.

A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place over the Elk Fire area. Wildfires are a no-fly zone for unauthorized aircraft, including drones.For more information, visitknowbeforeyoufly.org.

There have been no changes in road closures within the fire area. US Highway 14 is closed between Burgess Junction and Dayton primarily due to falling rocks and debris and pockets of active fire behavior. There are also closures on Red Grade Road and County Road 89 from Dayton to Beckton Junction. County Road 335 is closed from the intersection of County Road 335 and Brinton Road to the west.

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Elk Fire containment remains steady

The Elk Fire continues to sit at 96,244 acres and 48% containment, with 549 personnel continuing to fight the lightning-caused fire.

As the weather warms back up today, pockets of smoke will become visible inside the fire area. Fire managers are aware of these hotspots and will take action as needed.

Most of the heat will likely come from the heavy down and dead fuels on the ground, which should not be a cause for alarm.

Remnants of snow remain in some of the shaded areas and northern facing slopes; however, a gradual drying pattern continues. Fire personnel were busy Sunday doing prep work to make potential firelines more defensible and repairing previous suppression lines.

Today, Division A firefighters will continue to mop up and rehab firelines on the northern part of the fire. Division ZCrews are looking for opportunities to close any fireline gaps in the Red Canyon area. A road grader worked yesterday on suppression repair of dozer lines.

Yesterday was a scouting day for Division I to identify a suppression repair opportunities. Heavy equipment that arrived on site will begin repair work today.

The ground dried out sufficiently to begin suppression repair work yesterday. While doing this work in the interior of the fire, a couple of logs flared up as they were turned over by the dozer. Crews promptly suppressed the hotspot. Suppression repair continued along the eastern edge of the fire.

Division H crews are focusing on the 26, or Red Grade Road, prepping it to use as an indirect fireline to its junction with the 16 Road. They will prep that road to its junction with Highway 14. This work includes removing brush and other fuels by limbing trees and removing understory vegetation to eliminate small ladder fuels. This will assist with defending firelines in the event fire activity increases.

Fire supervisors are assessing the road system for a potential indirect fireline north of Burgess Junction to protect the WYDOT compound and the Forest Service Visitor Center and Work Center. A structure protection plan is in place. Work continues to prep the 15 Road north to Division A, limbing trees and removing small ladder fuels. Backhauling pumps will continue as needed.

Monday's weather will be very similar to Sunday, with subtle changes. Winds will be no more than 15 miles per hour. Minimum relative humidity will be 30-40%, with high temperatures in the lower 60s at upper elevations. This evening, winds will increase out of the southwest, picking up after 7 p.m. Localized gusts can be expected up to 35 miles per hour. The front is expected to come through overnight with potential gusts at lower elevations from 25-30 miles per hour. Precipitation is not expected, but temperatures and humidity should moderate.

An infrared flight last night showed most of the snow is gone. Fuel moisture in light fuels is starting to decrease. More smoke may be noticeable as fuels dry out.

I-90 from the Montana border to Sheridan will be closed Monday for a weed spraying via helicopter. Detour routes will be available. US Highway 14 is closed between Burgess Junction and Dayton. View the Wyoming Department of Transportation road-closure map here: atwyoroad.info/.

Crews pulled off mountain, await return of dry conditions

SHERIDAN — Moisture persisted over the Elk Fire through the afternoon and into the evening Thursday, resulting in no fire activity, according to Incident Command officials.

According to InciWeb as of 2 a.m. Friday, the Elk Fire has consumed 96,179 acres since starting by lightning Sept. 27 and is 44% contained.

Cold temperatures, high relative humidity, and precipitation Thursday and through the night resulted in minimal fire behavior and no growth, incident command reported in its daily update Friday morning.

The northern portion of the fire received approximately 1 inch of rain, and the southern side 0.7 inches. Areas above 7,000 feet in elevation received between 5 and 10 inches of snow. The winter weather advisory remains in effect until 6 p.m. Friday, bringing the possibility of additional precipitation before a short-duration warming, drying trend begins Saturday.

The soaking rain penetrated soils and vegetation, reducing fire behavior immediately and likely for several days; however, stumps and large pockets of dead and down trees will continue to produce smoke.

Firefighters also focused on winterizing almost 250 portable pumps but were pulled off the line early Thursday due to safety concerns around the weather.

All personnel was safely relocated to hotels, motels, the Sheridan Fairgrounds, and Sheridan College because of the ongoing winter-weather event.

“This situation is pretty challenging and really dynamic with the inclement weather, but we will always be proactive with taking care of our firefighters,” said Casey Cheesbrough, Elk Fire incident commander.

The decision to put firefighters back on the fireline Friday will be evaluated throughout the day. Those crews assessing the fire and road conditions will do so from hard-surface roads to minimize damage to gravel and dirt roads and trails saturated with recent precipitation.

Wednesday marks possible last night shift on Elk Fire, precipitation predicted

SHERIDAN — The Elk Fire continued to be active throughout Wednesday afternoon and into the early evening. Wednesday evening's night shift was likely the last, Incident Command said Thursday morning, as weather will continue to move into the area.

A winter weather advisory is in effect from 6 a.m. Thursday until 6 p.m. Friday.Cold temperatures, high relative humidity, and precipitation will make fire activity very minimal.

Precipitation Thursday through Friday morning is anticipated to be 0.6–1.1 inches across the fire area. At elevations above 7,000 feet, up to 12 inches of snow is possible. Cold temperatures, high relative humidities and precipitation will result in very minimal fire behavior Thursday and Friday; no growth beyond the fire’s current perimeter is expected to occur. However, the fire will still smolder and produce smoke in some areas.

Despite abundant smoke production Wednesday, the fire did not progress southward toward Red Grade Road, Incident Command officials said in the daily fire update. Most fire activity was on the fire’s west side.

Hot temperatures, very low humidity, and southwest wind gusts up to 30 mph in the higher elevations yesterday led to a lot of fire activity on the northwestern corner of the fire. Near Broderick Flat the fire started to spread, but large air tankers and helicopters dropped water and retardant in the area. Night shift crews were prepared to conduct firing operations off the 144 Road (Pass Creek Road). However, fire behavior decreased overnight eliminating the need. Today fire activity in the area should be low, with crews monitoring the area and beginning to repair areas damaged during the fire-suppression phase.

Despite fire activity and abundant smoke on the southern side, the fire remained north of Rapid Creek and Forest Service Trail 238. Southeast of Big Goose Creek a short-range spot fire was detected in the grass. Crews and aircraft kept it from significantly growing during the day, and then a hotshot crew, sawyers, and engines working the night shift contained it at 2.5 acres.

Most of the fire activity yesterday occurred in multiple areas along the western side of the fire, creating distinct smoke columns visible to communities to the east. Strong southwesterly winds along the fire’s western edge pushed the fire back into itself, igniting unburned fuels along the serpentine fire perimeter.

Sheridan County Sheriff's Office reported no changes to road closures or evacuation maps Wednesday.

The fire has consumed 96,179 acres and 28% contained.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

Elk Fire exceeds 92K acres consumed

The Elk Fire has consumed 92,487 acres and is 28% contained. A total of 903 personnel are working the fire Wednesday.

Overnight Oct. 15 to 16, fire behavior on the Elk Fire was minimal, allowing a hotshot crew to work directly along the fire's edge on Rapid Creek. The fire had not crossed the creek as of 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16.

Crews patrolled Red Grade Road and were in the Poverty Flats area. On the north side of the fire, crews worked to contain a small "slop" of fire that crossed the 114 road to the west, according to incident command managers.

Crews were able to finish work to secure the edge of the seven-mile-long control line from Big Goose Creek water intake facility south to Red Grade Road during operations Tuesday into the evening. Wednesday, crews will continue to patrol the area and mop-up hotspots to slow the fire’s progression to the southeast.

Fire behavior is expected to be active Wednesday due to hot and dry conditions; however, firefighters will be preparing for colder weather and moisture starting later in the evening.

On Red Grade Road Wednesday, firefighters in the Poverty Flats area will continue implementing structure protection measures around homes. The work includes clearing flammable debris and adding sprinklers, hose and pumps on properties. Heavy equipment operators will also continue the effort to remove trees and vegetation along the Red Grade Road, to create defensible space should strategic firing operations be necessary. Structure preparation south of the Red Grade Road will continue all the way west to U.S. Highway 14.

Firing operations were conducted along the 168 Road north of Burgess Junction yesterday to secure the lines created in the area.

On the northwest corner of the fire near the Broderick Flats, southwest winds caused spot fires Tuesday. Assisted by helicopters doing water drops, crews were able to put fireline around the spot fires. High temperatures and low humidity early in the day today will combine with southwest wind gusts up to 25-30 mph to increase fire activity in the area.

Patrols will continue on the northwest side and along the containment line stretching from the northeast corner of the fire down to the Soldier Creek, including the Tongue Canyon area.

Public information officers will be at the Big Horn post office Wednesday from 2:30-4:30 p.m. to answer questions about the current fire situation, operational strategies and evacuations.

Air quality alert remains

An air quality alert remains — for Sheridan County, northeast Bighorn Mountains and the Sheridan foothills, including Burgess Junction — through 1 p.m. Wednesday.

The Wyoming Department of Health recommends the elderly, young children, and individuals with respiratory problems avoid excessive physical exertion and minimize outdoor activities during this time. Wildfire smoke is made up of a variety of pollutants, including particulate matter and ozone, which can cause respiratory health effects. Although these people are most susceptible to health impacts, the Department of Health also advises that everyone should avoid prolonged exposure to poor air quality conditions.

Monday evacuation map stands

Evacuations for the Sheridan County area remain the same since Oct. 14 and include:

GO

•Eatons' Ranch

• West of Pass Creek Road

• West of Big Goose Road

• West of Beckton Road and South of Eaton Ranch Road

• Red Grade Road west at the end of Bear Gulch Road continuing in a southeasterly manner to Hidden Valley Road, continuing south to the U.S. Forest Service boundary. This includes all cabins within the Teepee Cabin group, all cabins in the Black Tooth Cabin Association and homes on Lower Hideaway Lane, Red Poll Lane and Upper Hideaway Lane. This also includes Stumpy Ridge, Helsberg, and Folley Ranch.

SET

• Pass Creek Road from Highway 345 west to Slack Road and north to the Montana state line. This includes the residences along Slack Road. South along East Pass Creek Road from its intersection with Pass Creek Road to the Forest Service boundary continuing east to include the length of Twin Creek Road.

• Residences along Amsden Road. Residences east of the intersection of Amsden Road and Tongue Canyon Road to the town of Dayton.

• Residences east of U.S. Highway 14 up to the Horseshoe Ranch. This includes the Eagle Ridge Subdivision.

• West of Beckton Road south of Dayton to Eaton’s Ranch Road west to Eaton’s Ranch.

• County Road 77 and all surrounding area to Polo Drive north and south to Story.

READY

• South of Twin Creek Road from Parkman, north of Amsden Road, and west of Wyoming Highway 343. This includes residences along Smith Creek Road and Columbus Creek Road.

• South of Montana state line to Wyoming Highway 345, east to Interstate 90, and east to Barker Road. This includes residences in the Parkman Hills Subdivision and residences along the west side of Barker Road.

• South of Soldier Creek Road, west to Beckton Road and South to Wagon Box Road, including Story and Banner.

City monitoring water quality

City of Sheridan Utilities Director Dan Roberts said his team is proactively taking steps to address any taste and odor issues that ash from the fire may cause in the water supply.

Roberts said staff has not seen an increase in turbidity — which, if it does increase suggests ash or sediment carrying ash is entering the water supply.

The city has yet to receive widespread comments or calls about the taste or odor, Roberts said in a press release, but have proactively tested the ash in the city's lab and confirmed staff can effectively remove it with treatment methods.

On Tuesday, the city's water treatment team began utilizing active carbon in the treatment process to prevent any potential taste and odor issues.

"Rest assured, we are taking every measure to ensure the safety and quality of your water," Roberts said in the release.

The activated carbon will absorb the ash, which will then be removed through conventional treatment processes.

"As we work to prevent any taste and odor problems, we will continuously monitor our progress and make adjustments as needed," Roberts said in the release. "We are grateful to our residents for keeping us informed and providing feedback."

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

Elk Fire continues to grow

The Elk Fire grew by 2,590 acres to 91,905 acres from Monday to Tuesday, and has dropped from 27% to 26% containment.

A total of 939 personnel and dozens of other resources continue to fight the lightning-caused fire.

Warm, dry conditions yesterday intensified fire activity. Along the southern edge, the fire continued to move southeast toward the seven-mile-long control line that was created over the last several days. Overnight, it crossed Rapid Creek. Night operations inserted a hotshot crew that created handline to slow the fire’s forward progression at the Forest Service Trail 238.

Further south of the fire, crews continued the ongoing work of widening and clearing trees and vegetation with heavy equipment along Red Grade Road. On Tuesday, additional crews from the recently completed chipping operations along the 144 Road north of the fire will join in the work along Red Grade Road.

Crews continue to improve structure protection in the Burgess Junction area, while also using heavy equipment to widen and clear the 15 and 16 Roads to create a box of fireline around the area.

An aerial reconnaissance flight detected some fire activity in the northwest corner of the fire yesterday. Crews worked quickly to create a control line and secure the area. Patrols will continue in the northwest corner of the fire, along the north side near the 144 Road, and along the containment line on the eastern side of the fire to mop-up any hotspots.

Tuesday'stemperatures will be up to 20 degrees higher than normal for this time of year and will combine with relative humidity as low as 16% to produce a high probability of significant fire activity and smoke production. For air-quality and smoke information, go toairnow.gov.

The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office released updates to evacuation statuses and road closures Monday. Evacuation status for an area southwest of Dayton near Horseshoe Road changed from Go to Set, allowing residents to return to the area. Some roads near Dayton, Parkman, and Sheridan were re-opened to the public.

For more detailed information about evacuation statuses and road closures go to the Sheridan County Emergency Management website attinyurl.com/2s38bcc5.

Wyoming Department of Transportation opened portions of US 14 and US 14A previously closed due to the Elk Fire. WYDOT opened US 14 from Greybull to Burgess Junction and US 14A from Burgess Junction to Lovell.

US 14 from Burgess Junction east to Dayton remains closed. View the WYDOT road-closure map here atwyoroad.info.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

WYDOT opens portions of U.S. 14 and U.S. 14A previously closed due to Elk Fire

The Wyoming Department of Transportation has opened U.S. Highway 14 from Greybull to Burgess Junction and U.S. 14A from Burgess Junction to Lovell as of 4 p.m. Oct. 14.

U.S. Highway 14 Burgess Junction east to Dayton remains closed.

Due to the heavy firefighting traffic of crews working the Elk Fire north and east of these routes, motorists are asked to watch for their presence and yield to them when necessary.

The Bighorn National Forest Service has closed access to the following forest service roads. These roads are within the fire boundary and are not accessible to motorists. These roads include Forest Service Road 26 /Dead Swede to Red Grade on U.S. 14 and Forest Service Roads 14,15, and 178 on U.S. Highway 14A.

The Wyoming Highway Patrol will monitor the closure gates at Dayton and Burgess Junction.

New evacuations started Monday

Lots of activity on the Elk Fire over the weekend resulted in less containment, more acreage and increased evacuations, but all under strategic fire operations.

Monday morning reports showed a total of 89,315 acres burned — a 1,455-acre increase from Sunday — with 944 personnel, 13 aircraft, 19 crews, 59 engines, eight dozers, 18 water tenders, five masticators, eight skidders, six feller bunchers, four processors and three chippers operational.

The fire sits at 27% containment Monday morning.

At 7 a.m. Monday, large portions of Red Grade Road moved to GO on evacuation maps, including the area west at the end of Bear Gulch Road continuing in a southeasterly manner to Hidden Valley Road, continuing south to the U.S. Forest Service boundary. This includes all cabins within the Teepee Cabin group, all cabins in the Black Tooth Cabin Association and homes on Lower Hideaway Lane, Red Poll Lane and Upper Hideaway Lane. This also includes Stumpy Ridge, Helsberg and Folley Ranch.

Poverty Flats area also moved to GO status, while areas north of Poverty Flats moved to SET. These changes are due to potential nearby strategic firing operations and increases of personnel, resources and equipment in the area.

The Integrated Public Alert Warning System (IPAWS) alerted impacted residents Monday morning.

Additionally, Big Horn area residents upgraded to SET, including the intersection of Hidden Valley Road and Highway 335 continuing east to the intersection of Brinton Road, continuing in a southeasterly manner along the foothills to Kemp Creek, continuing south to the U.S. Forest Service boundary.

READY status-impacted areas include the area south of Highway 335 and Brinton Road moving due east to Highway 87. This includes everything west and south of the intersection of Highway 87 and Bird Farm Road. This does not include the Equestrian Hills subdivision or the Big Horn Equestrian Center.

A hard road closure exists from the intersection of Highway 335 and Brinton Road, and only local traffic and law enforcement will be allowed, monitored by heavy law enforcement traffic.

Public information officers will be available to answer questions at the Big Horn Post Office from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Monday.

Monday’s plan,

conditions

Firefighting crews continued strategic firing operations south of the main fire Sunday to reduce fuels, slow the fires spread and reduce intensity. Firefighters started ignitions at Red Grade Road and the operations progressed to the north.

Overnight crews continued the firing operations and were able to complete firing along the seven-mile-long control line.

Structure protection crews will continue work near homes and other properties in the Poverty Flats area Monday, clearing flammable debris and setting up ponds, pumps and sprinkler systems.

Up Red Grade Road on the U.S. National Forest land, crews are using feller bunchers, masticators and other heavy equipment to clear vegetation on both sides of Forest Service Road 26 to create a defensible line for strategic firing operations, if needed, to stop the southward movement of the fire.

In the Burgess Junction area, hand crews and heavy equipment will continue work to improve the 15 Road and remove trees and vegetation. Their goal is to reduce potential fire impacts in Burgess Junction. Crews and equipment will move to the 16 Road today, doing similar work.

Crews north of the fire continued chipping debris along the 144 road, as well as patrolling along the dozer lines to prevent any movement west into the Broderick Flats. Patrols along containment lines on the eastern side of the fire are ongoing, with very few hotspots being found.

Weather and fire behavior

Sunday there were moderate temperatures, slightly lower relative humidity and lingering smoke. This resulted in minimal fire activity during the day.

Sunday night, the lower humidity continued early, resulting in more fire activity than recent nights.

After midnight, temperatures fell and humidity rose resulting in steadily decreasing fire activity.

Monday is forecasted to be warmer and drier with a westerly wind moving to a northwesterly wind. This will likely increase fire activity on the southern end of the fire.

Protecting water

The city of Sheridan has been notified that the Elk Fire Incident Commander has authorized the limited deployment of aerial fire retardant in the Big Goose Drainage to protect critical values at risk. The use of retardant in the Big Goose Watershed has been sparing and will continue to be; if further retardant is deemed necessary, it will be used in alignment with the strict guidelines of keeping fire retardant drops at least 300 feet from any moving body of water. This precautionary buffer zone is critical to preventing potential water supply contamination. The participating aircraft are equipped with precision GPS guidance systems to ensure accuracy in meeting these requirements. City staff has collected baseline samples of the city’s source water and is working closely with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to compare any changes to the water in the future. City staff said in a press release they are confident these proactive measures will enable city staff to keep the community informed about any developments.

Forest supervisors establishing

assessment team

A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) assessment team is being established for the Elk Fire burning in the Bighorn National Forest and Sheridan County.

Forest Service BAER assessment teams are established by forest supervisors before wildfires are fully contained. BAER assessment teams coordinate and work with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bureau of Land Management, Fish and Wildlife Service, National Weather Service, local counties, State Department of Transportation, and other federal, state and local agencies to strategically assess potential post-fire impacts on National Forest System lands burned from wildfires.

The Elk Fire BAER assessment team will evaluate conditions to determine the level of potential risks to human life, safety, property, critical natural and cultural-heritage resources and determine if there are appropriate and effective measures that can be implemented in a timely manner to reduce unacceptable risks from potential flooding and debris flow threats.

BAER assessment teams are staffed by trained professionals that may include hydrologists, soil scientists, engineers, biologists, archaeologists, recreation and trail specialists, geographic information specialists and others who evaluate the burned area. The team will generate a soil burn severity map using satellite imagery and then ground truth the imagery with field surveys.

The team’s findings and recommendations to the forest supervisor will be presented in a final report. The report identifies immediate and emergency actions needed to address potential post-fire risks to human life and safety, property, cultural heritage and critical natural resources on National Forest System lands.

Federal

assistance available

Federal assistance to private landowners regarding potential post-fire impacts is the primary responsibility of the Natural Resources Conservation Service through the Emergency Watershed Protection program, nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/ewp-emergency-watershed-protection.

Weekend

fire activity

Friday to Saturday, the fire grew 5,048 acres and sat at 32% containment with 937 personnel operational.

Saturday into Sunday, the fire grew 3,477 acres to total 87,805 with 28% containment Oct. 13.

The lightning-caused fire currently deploys 901 personnel, 13 aircraft, 17 crews, 70 engines, eight dozers, 17 water tenders, five masticators, eight skidders, five feller bunchers and one processor.

Fire personnel stationed at the Story Post Office Sunday to answer questions about the current fire situation, operational strategies and evacuations.

Johnson County Emergency Management is now on board with evacuation notices and emergency management managers alerted residents in the Story area by issuing a ready status south of the Sheridan/Johnson county line.

Crews on the northern side of the fire patrolled along the dozer-constructed firelines watching for any hotspots Sunday, stopping progression as well as clearing and chipping debris along the 144 Road.

Crews patrolling the contained eastern side of the fire are finding very few hotspots.

The south side of the fire remains the priority area for both night- and day-shift crews. Fire activity was minimal overnight Saturday as crews worked around structures along the Red Grade Road to make improvements.

Sunday, firing operations south of the main fire are ongoing to reduce fuels and increase firelines as firefighters work their way south to Red Grade Road. Helicopters made numerous retardant drops Saturday around communication infrastructure, dozer firelines, hunting camps and cabins.

“We will continue to look south to Story and to communication sites in the area,” said Elk Fire Incident Commander Casey Cheesbrough. “We have been successful so far by being proactive, and we will continue to operate that way.”

Sunday, all 13 aircraft were available to assist with firing operations; however, heavy smoke and low visibility may have limited the ability to fly.

In the Burgess Junction area, crews are prepped and ready, but the favorable weather is keeping the fire activity low. Heavy equipment and hand crews continue to widen and clear the areas along the Forest Service Road 15, preparing it for future firing operations should that become necessary. Lower temperatures and higher relative humidity levels Saturday led to a decrease in fire behavior and were ideal for firing operations later in the day. Sunday, lower temperatures and a light northerly wind resulted in another day of moderate fire growth expected in most areas. Firing operations and the main fire produced abundant smoke Sunday.

For air quality and smoke information, see airnow.gov.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

Fire containment jumps to 32%

Elk Fire containment more than doubled throughout Friday, Oct. 11, as it jumped from 14% on Friday morning to 32% on Saturday morning.

The fire continues to grow however. The fire saw a 5,048 acre increase on Friday, bringing the total size to 84,328 acres. A total of 937 personnel and multiple additional resources continue to fight the fire.

As containment increases on the fire’s eastern perimeter, resources are shifting to the southern side of the fire, which is the priority focus of the suppression effort.

During a presentation of today’s operational plan, Deputy Incident Commander Jay Miller said, “Some things we can control and some things we can’t, but we can control the work we’re doing. We’ll be as aggressive as we can be while keeping firefighters and residents safe and protecting the watershed from lasting damage.”

Saturday’s reported acreage increase is a result of both recent firing operations conducted primarily on the southern side of the fire and the ongoing growth of the main fire.

While much of the fire’s eastern perimeter is now contained, engine crews will maintain a presence in the area as they patrol and extinguish any lingering hotspots they observe from containment lines. Firefighters are also backhauling excess equipment.

Friday evening, on the northwest side near Broderick Flat, the fire spotted across a dozer line adjacent to the 114 Road. While receiving aerial assistance with water drops, crews constructed fireline around most of the spot fire. Night operations then finished line construction, secured the area and mopped up hotspots. Today, crews will continue to monitor the area. Along the 144 Road, chipping operations continue, clearing slash piles accumulated from earlier road preparation.

Fire growth on the western side remains moderate. However, numerous firefighters spiked out at a second camp near Burgess Junction continue to install pumps and sprinklers around structures and are ready to use firing tactics should the fire advance westward. North of Burgess Junction on the 15 Road, crews are using hand tools and heavy equipment to remove vegetation and prepare the area for defensive action.

On the fire’s south side, firing operations have been completed around the water intake facility. Night operations mopped up remaining hotspots and started to remove fire hose and pumps. They also completed 85 acres of firing operations north of Red Grade Road. To stay ahead of the fire, crews will continue those firing operations today. Along Red Grade Road, heavy-equipment operators and hand crews are removing vegetation to clear and widen the road, which is serving as the primary fireline. Parallel to and south of the road, aircraft made numerous retardant drops to pretreat the area should firing operations north off the Red Grade Road be necessary to halt the fire’s southward progression.

A weak cold front will move across the area Saturday, bringing northerly winds, slightly cooler temperatures and higher humidity. The shift in wind direction will be favorable to crews working on the northern and eastern sides of the fire but challenging to those on the southern and western sides.

Numerous days of unseasonably hot, dry conditions have led to the vegetation and abundant dead and down trees being extremely dry and receptive to burning. The incident’s fire behavior analyst has advised crews to anticipate active fire behavior and potentially significant growth of the main fire. The public may observe abundant smoke throughout the day Saturday.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

_______________________________________________________

Fire containment drops to 14%

Containment of the Elk Fire continued to drop Thursday, as the fire grew by 2,902 acres. Still, firefighters made progress.

As of Friday morning at 9 a.m., the fire was 79,280 acres and only 14% contained, continuing to drop from a high of 16% containment earlier in the week.

929 firefighting personnel and dozens of other resources continue to fight the lighting-caused fire.

Public information officers will be at the post office in Story Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to talk to community members and answer questions. They will also staff an information board at the Tongue River High School homecoming parade in Dayton this morning.

Throughout Thursday and Thursday night, a significant portion of the firefighting effort was focused on the southern end of the fire. Working from the Sheridan Water Treatment Plant and intake facility, hand crews progressed southeastward, completing two miles of containment line through firing operations.

Ground crews received support from an unmanned aerial system/drone and piloted aircraft. Two hotshot crews and a drone working the night shift completed firing operations around the water intake facility. These operations are being conducted with the goal of minimizing damage to the watershed, infrastructure and communities and preventing the fire’s eastward spread.

Simultaneously, firefighters and heavy equipment are working along Red Grade Road, clearing brush and preparing the road to serve as a control feature should the fire continue to advance southward.

On the west side of the fire, numerous firefighters are at a second camp near Burgess Junction, giving them quicker access to the fire each day. They have prepared all structures and are ready to conduct defensive firing operations should that side of the fire become more active and advance westward.

To the north, crews are making progress, working their way east to west along the 144 Road. They are constructing and securing fireline and are nearing the fire’s northwest corner near Broderick Flat. They are also chipping woody debris and slash that accumulated during the road-preparation project. Aircraft have been assisting ground crews in that area by conducting water and retardant drops. Night-shift crews did not observe any flames or areas of heat near the firelines they patrolled.

Firefighters are monitoring containment lines on the eastern edge of the fire, ensuring no lingering areas of heat remain within several feet of the perimeter. Crews have progressed southeastward to Crystal Springs, constructing and securing containment lines directly on the fire’s edge. They are starting to backhaul excess equipment and supplies to be used elsewhere around the fire.

Lower temperatures and higher humidity levels yesterday somewhat moderated fire behavior and provided crews with conditions conducive for firefighting operations. High humidity levels Thursday night, combined with cloud cover and cooler, moister air today, should reduce the amount of time during the day the fire will be most active, especially in grassy areas. However, forested areas are still very dry, and fire behavior will remain active. The fire itself and the tactical firing operations could produce abundant smoke.

Sheridan County evacuation levels did not change Thursday. Several county roads in the fire area remain closed.

Fire wall part of controlled burn

A wall of fire burning and visible from Black Tooth Park and off of Big Goose Road is part of slow progressive fire operations, according to incident management.

"What people are seeing right now is where our slow progressive fire that we put on the ground coming from the top of the ridge down is meeting natural fire that is trying to rush up,"Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team Public Information Officer Kristie Thompson told The Sheridan Press 8 p.m. Oct. 10. "Those two meeting together is causing a flame wall in the area."

Thompson said officials realize it is scary for people to see but wanted to inform the public to quell fears.

Evacuation orders from Wednesday remained unchanged Thursday.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

_____________________________________________________________

Fire crosses Big Goose Creek

The Elk Fire crossed Big Goose Creek on the southern end of the fire, according to Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team through the Bighorn National Forest.

The night crew was ready and anticipating this forward progression, incident command reported, and crews completed burn out operations to introduce low intensity fire on the landscape to reduce the fuel load before active fire arrived, creating a "catcher's mitt" for the fire, officials said.

The Elk Fire spans 76,378 acres burned with 15% containment.

Firefighters targeting areas of Elk Fire, increase in activity

Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team firefighters and volunteers are implementing strategic firing operations in the Elk Fire, which increased fire activity throughout Wednesday.

The Elk Fire, as reported by incident command Wednesday at 9 p.m., has consumed 76,378 acres and is 16% contained.

The team implemented strategic firing operations along the southern edge of the fire Wednesday. More fire activity and smoke could be seen from Sheridan, Beckton, Big Horn and Story.

Firefighters added low to moderate intensity fire to the ground in targeted areas to remove fuels from the Elk Fire and limit the fire's intensity, according to the incident command through the Bighorn National Forest.

The objective of firing operations, as well as several other operations being implemented near the southern edge of the fire is to protect the Big Goose Creek Watershed as well as communities to the east and south, including Big Horn and Story, according to incident command.

With warm temperatures and low humidity, incident command saw an increase in fire behavior. Much of the smoke seen Wednesday came from inside the fire perimeter, incident command reported 9 p.m. Wednesday. Smoldering materials turned into burning materials and previously unburned pockets of vegetation caught fire.

The fire also spread along the western edges. Some firing operations also occurred in the Big Goose drainage and on the northern edges of Road 144.

Mental health services available for community

Volunteers of America Northern Rockies will host a coffee and connect outreach Friday, Oct. 11 form 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Innominate Coffee House and Bakery, located at 652 U.S. Highway 14 in Ranchester.

As part of its community crisis response services, the VOA is offering mental health services. For more information, see the VOA's community crisis response page.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

Fire activity increased Tuesday night

Dayton— Due to high, gusty winds and low humidity Tuesday night, Elk Fire activity increased significantly northwest of the Big Goose Water Treatment Plant. The fire remains at 16% contained and has burned 75,969 acres as of 10 a.m. Oct. 9.

Nearby resources working the night shift—one dozer, one hotshot crew, and eight engines—responded to the area. The weather today will be warmer, drier, and the fire will likely be more active. Numerous aircraft are assigned to the incident and will be conducting water and retardant drops.

Current Situation:Today, the crews will continue to prepare the 144 Road and conduct more firing operations to protect the Little Bighorn Canyon. That area of the fire is active and in steep drainages that are producing smoke.

On the southeastern and southern parts of the fire, mop up and patrolling continues in the Crystal Springs area. Firefighting crews will continue to build additional control lines and prepare areas for potential low-intensity, strategic firing operations that would protect the watershed and associated water-treatment plant structures.

On the western side of the fire in the Burgess Junction area, structure protection is in place. Firefighters remain in place to protect structures and engage the fire if necessary.

Road closures extended

The Wyoming Department of Transportation has extended the road closure limits on U.S. Highway 14 north of the Antelope Butte Ski Area and U.S. Highway 14A east of Lovell.

To accommodate access to Hunt Area 40 outside of the Elk Fire closure areas west of Burgess Junction, the Wyoming Highway Patrol has moved those closures to milepost 85.6 — Hunt Mountain Road/Forest Service Road 10 on U.S. Highway 14A, and to milepost 38.3 — Granite Pass/Hunt Mountain Road/Forest Service Road 10 on U.S. Highway 14.

The Wyoming Highway Patrol will have troopers posted at these two locations.

Motorists will encounter barricades with no access on U.S. Highway 14A at Forest Service Road 14 (Sheep Mountain/Devils Canyon) and Forest Service Road 15 (Dayton Gulch) located within the U.S. Forest Service Elk Fire closure.

WYDOT, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the Bighorn National Forest ask motorists and hunters to be extremely mindful of firefighting equipment in the area and to be familiar with the boundaries of the Elk Fire.

After Sheridan County Sheriff's Office deputies allowed property owners of Red Grade to access their properties in anticipation of the fire moving south along the Bighorn Mountain range, Red Grade is now closed to all traffic until further notice to allow for fire suppression crews to have unencumbered access.

Additionally, Sheridan County officials are asking the public to avoid Dayton East Road during the hours of 6-9 a.m. and 6-9 p.m. to allow emergency personnel to travel to and from the fire camp to ensure efficient response efforts.

Use alternate routes during the designated hours.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

More than 800 personnel fighting fire

DAYTON — A total of 829 personnel are working on containing the now 75,969-acre Elk Fire, which started by lightning Sept. 27 in the Bighorn National Forest. Crews have increased containment to 16%, as of 10 p.m. Oct. 8.

Good progress was made in structure preparation near the Big Goose Water Facility, fire officials reported Tuesday night.

Containment is a tactical point at which a fire's spread is stopped by and within specific features, constructed or natural, in a way which can reasonably be expected to stop the fire's spread. In shorter terms, no further spread is expected under foreseeable conditions.

The word foreseeable is a really important caveat. Containment means that fire managers believe that the chance of fire spread past a fireline has dropped significantly, but not that it is completely gone. That's why crews will continue patrolling the containment line to make sure the fire is indeed staying contained.

Containments on fire area maps are indicated with a black line instead of red.

Road closures extended

The Wyoming Department of Transportation has extended the road closure limits on U.S. Highway 14 north of the Antelope Butte Ski Area and U.S. Highway 14A east of Lovell.

To accommodate access to Hunt Area 40 outside of the Elk Fire closure areas west of Burgess Junction, the Wyoming Highway Patrol has moved those closures to milepost 85.6 — Hunt Mountain Road/Forest Service Road 10 on U.S. Highway 14A, and to milepost 38.3 — Granite Pass/Hunt Mountain Road/Forest Service Road 10 on U.S. Highway 14.

The Wyoming Highway Patrol will have troopers posted at these two locations.

Motorists will encounter barricades with no access on U.S. Highway 14A at Forest Service Road 14 (Sheep Mountain/Devils Canyon) and Forest Service Road 15 (Dayton Gulch) located within the U.S. Forest Service Elk Fire closure.

WYDOT, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the Bighorn National Forest ask motorists and hunters to be extremely mindful of firefighting equipment in the area and to be familiar with the boundaries of the Elk Fire.

After Sheridan County Sheriff's Office deputies allowed property owners of Red Grade to access their properties in anticipation of the fire moving south along the Bighorn Mountain range, Red Grade is now closed to all traffic until further notice to allow for fire suppression crews to have unencumbered access.

Additionally, Sheridan County officials are asking the public to avoid Dayton East Road during the hours of 6-9 a.m. and 6-9 p.m. to allow emergency personnel to travel to and from the fire camp to ensure efficient response efforts.

Use alternate routes during the designated hours.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

Community meeting moves south with fire

BIG HORN —The Rocky Mountain Area Complex Incident Management Team 3 and group of officials coordinating efforts to attack the Elk Fire in the Bighorn National Forest will host a community meeting Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Big Horn High School.

The meeting will be recorded and posted to the Bighorn National Forest Facebook page, as well.

The Elk Fire has consumed 74,685 acres and is 10% contained as of 8:15 a.m. Tuesday morning, according to InciWeb.

Classes are back in session for the Tongue River side of Sheridan County School District 1, sans the Slack Elementary School.

Red Grade Road remains closed to all public after two days of allowing property owners access to secure their homes.The next few days, Red Grade Road will see an increase in firefighting equipment and personnel, and the roads in that area need to be clear for fire personnel to do their work safely and efficiently.

Evacuation levels decreased for some areas of Sheridan County. The most recent evacuation lists include:

GO

•Eatons' Ranch

• West of Pass Creek Road

• West of Big Goose Road

• West of Beckton Road and South of Eaton Ranch Road

SET

• Pass Creek Road from Highway 345 west to Slack Road and north to the Montana state line. This includes the residences along Slack Road. South along East Pass Creek Road from its intersection with Pass Creek Rd to the Forest Service boundary continuing east to include the length of Twin Creek Road.

• Residences along Amsden Road. Residences east of the intersection of Amsden Road and Tongue Canyon Road to the town of Dayton.

• Residences east of US Hwy 14 up to the Horseshoe Ranch. This includes the Eagle Ridge Subdivision.

• West of Beckton Road south of Dayton to Eaton’s Ranch Road west to Eaton’s Ranch.

READY

• South of Twin Creek Road from Parkman, north of Amsden Road, and west of Wy HWY 343. This includes residences along Smith Creek Road and Columbus Creek Road.

• The town of Parkman residents and the residents north of Parkman, on both sides the east and west sides of HWY 345, up to the Montana state line.

• South of Montana state line to Wy HWY 345, east to I-90, and east to Barker Road. This includes residences in the Parkman Hills Subdivision and residences along the west side of Barker Road.

Lightning confirmed start

Bighorn National Forest officials confirmed the start of the Elk Fire was from lightning.

A certified fire investigator was helicoptered into the area where the fire started, and it has been confirmed that the cause was indeed lightning, according to a post on BNF's Facebook page.

Officials would not release the name of the individual fire investigator. The point of origin is near Dry Fork Ridge between Miller and West Fork Taffner creeks, according to InciWeb, which BNF Public Information Officer Sara Evans Kirol said was accurate.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

Red Grade Road closed to the public again

After two days where cabin owners were granted permission along Red Grade Road to access their property, red Grade Road is once again officially closed to the public. All cabin owners were asked to be off the road and out of their properties at 5 p.m. Monday.

The next few days, Red Grade Road will see an increase in firefighting equipment and personnel, and the roads in that area need to be clear for fire personnel to do their work safely and efficiently.

Any vehicles contacted on Red Grade Road may constitute enforcement action by law enforcement.

Tongue River schools to move back to in person Oct. 8

After the alert status for the town of Dayton was moved back from "set" to "ready" as of 1:40 p.m. Oct. 7 and speaking with emergency personnel, Sheridan County School District 1 will proceed with in person activities this afternoon and return to school in person at all schools in Tongue River Oct. 8., except for Slack Elementary.

Air quality will be monitored as usual, and decisions based on participation because of air quality will be communicated out to coaches, students and athletes by school administrators, SCSD1 Superintendent Jeff Jones said in an Oct. 7 message to district staff and families.

Fire start confirmed lightning

Bighorn National Forest officials confirmed the start of the Elk Fire was from lightning.

A certified fire investigator was helicoptered into the area where the fire started, and it has been confirmed that the cause was indeed lightning, according to a post on BNF's Facebook page.

Officials would not release the name of the individual fire investigator. The point of origin is near Dry Fork Ridge between Miller and West Fork Taffner creeks, according to InciWeb, which BNF Public Information Officer Sara Evans Kirol said was accurate.

Weekend weather increases fire acreage, 10% containment accomplished

DAYTON — Firefighters are ready to attack the Elk Fire head on, rather than responding defensively, Bighorn National Forest Supervisor Andrew Johnson said.

The Elk Fire, which started Sept. 27 by a now-undetermined cause, has grown to 72,998 acres and is 10% contained after weekend winds caused high fire activity through the Bighorn National Forest.

"We've been on the defense from the start when the fire was first reported to us at 8:30 in the morning, and we launched an air attack aircraft that we had prepositioned in Sheridan for just this sort of thing," Johnson said, noting they sent two engines, a 20-person hand crew and launched two helicopters within the first 10 minutes of the Elk Fire. "We fought hard, but again we've been on the defense from the start. This fire has shown an incredible resistance to control, it's been driven hard by the weather and it's grown the way you've seen it grow.

In the forest's 100-year history, the largest fire recorded 18,000 acres and took about a month to grow to that size. The Elk Fire, Friday night and early Saturday morning, grew 25,000 acres in a matter of hours, Johnson said.

"I'm sick of being on the defense," Johnson continued. "Working together with the team, we're coming up with strategies we think will have a high probability of success that mitigate risk to our firefighters and aviators and protect those critical values at risk — your homes, your lives, your livelihoods, your private lands and our backyard and our drinking water."

Johnson said crews are ready to go on the offensive, taking advantage of bettering weather conditions this week.

Incident Meteorologist Shawn Palmquist said cold front winds over the weekend paired with above average temperatures for Sheridan County and Burgess Junction caused non-ideal weather conditions for fire activity.

This week, Palmquist said, Sheridan County will be under the influence of high pressure, bringing the area back to warm and dry conditions, with temperatures in the 60s at Burgess Junctions most days and 70s and 80s in the lower portion of the fire. Humidity will remain low, but winds will remain lighter during the day and overnight.

The fire consumed two primary residences in the Horseshoe Subdivision over the weekend, but all other primary residences in the fire's wake have been spared at this time.

Structure protection tactics were and will continue to be utilized to prepare the Big Goose Water Treatment facility for any fire that may move into the area. Efforts are continuing to mitigate fire damage to the Big Goose Creek watershed, which feeds the water treatment facility and currently sits in READY evacuation zone.

Additional updates, including emergency updates, Sheridan County School District 1 school schedules, air and weather conditions, fire attack plans, evacuation notices and other stories from those impacted by the Elk Fire can be seen online at thesheridanpress.com.

To see former reporting of the Elk Fire, click through pages.

SCSD#1 sets tentative schedule

Sheridan County School District #1 has set a tentative schedule for the week as the Elk Fire continues to burn.

All schools on the Tongue River side of the school district will be closed on Oct. 7 with no expectation of virtual learning.

"We need to give people a day to rest, recover and be ready for life transitioning out of immediate crisis mode," Superintendent Jeff Jones said in an email to parents.

Tongue River Elementary and Tongue River Middle school will return to in-person learning on Tuesday and for the remainder of the week. If the town of Dayton is still in "set" status on Tuesday, TRHS will be online. If the town reverts to "ready" status, school will be in person.

Homecoming activities will move forward at TRHS if Dayton is moved from "set" to "ready" status. If Dayton remains in "set," then those activities will be postponed. The administration from TRHS and TRMS will announce more details tomorrow as the situation evolves.

Emergency Management Personnel is recommending Slack School not be in person for the next few days, although the district will re-evaluate this daily, Jones said. Principal Ryan Fuhrman has been in touch with impacted families and will create an alternative educational plan plan based on each family's circumstances.

School in Big Horn will be as normal on Monday, although the district will continue to monitor the situation hourly and communicate with all District staff and families whenever things change in Big Horn.

Red Grade cabin owners granted limited access Oct. 6

In cooperation with the incident management team, the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office and Bighorn National Forest are allowing access for owners of cabins along Red Grade Road Oct. 6. This access will only be allowed until 5 p.m., and is only for cabins located along Red Grade Road.

Cabin owners will need to check-in with law enforcement at the Red Grade Road closure with their official ID, plate number and the location and address of the cabin they are visiting. Cabin owners must check out with law enforcement before 5 p.m. tonight. No trailers or heavy equipment will be allowed past the Red Grade Road closure.

Further opportunities may be available in future days, as fire conditions allow, for others interested in retrieving items from the mountain.

Elk Fire now near 73,000 acres

The Elk Fire currently stretches 72,998 acres, and is still 0% contained. A total of 597 personnel are fighting the fire six miles northwest of Dayton

Smoke is settling over the Elk Fire area from fires further to the west. This is expected to continue and is likely to decrease fire activity on Oct. 6. This smoke may also impact air operations as helicopters need a minimum of one mile visibility to operate on wildland fires.

The operational shift on the evening of Oct. 5 found heat coming from a structure on the eastern side of the fire; heavy equipment was used to remove burning hay inside a barn. The fire was extinguished outside of the structure.

Throughout Oct. 6, structure protection work will continue on the northwestern side of the fire in Little Horn Canyon and crews will be looking for favorable conditions to burn unconsumed vegetation south of Hwy 144. On the eastern side of the fire, crews will continue to extinguish areas of heat along established firelines.

Crews will continue structure protection work in the subdivisions along US HWY 14 and patrol and mop up any heat sources around structures. Structure protection tactics have been utilized to prepare the Big Goose Water Treatment facility for any fire that may move into the area. Efforts are continuing to mitigate fire damage to the Big Goose Creek watershed, which feeds the water treatment facility.

Fire crews are continuing structure protection work in the Burgess Junction area; this work includes multiple structure preparation techniques such as removal of vegetation near structures, construction of fireline, and placement of hose and sprinklers where possible.

Firefighter and public safety remain the top priority as the fire continues. The tactics used to suppress the fire will be determined by the terrain, fire and weather conditions, and medical response time with a focus on implementing plans and tactics that have a high probability of success.

US Highway 14 remains closed from Dayton to Burgess Junction. Contact the Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office at 307-672-3455 or Sheridan County Emergency Management at 307-752-2174 for more information on evacuations and road closures.

Closures in the Bighorn National Forest have been expanded to include Forest System Roads 14, 11 and 111 in the Bighorn National Forest. Red Grade Road remains closed. The closures are in effect to protect firefighter and public safety.

Oct. 6 is the start of a warming, drying trend over the fire area as a high pressure system moves into the area. Winds are expected to be light and terrain-driven over the course of the day. Smoke that is anticipated to move into the area from fires further to the west may cause smoke shading and keep temperatures lower than the forecasted highs ranging in the mid 60s to low 70s.

It is anticipated the Elk Fire will continue to put up a smoke column.

Fire at 76,000 acres now

Bighorn National Forest officials said the fire had now reached 76,003 acres burned.

Two homes lost in Elk Fire

Sheridan County Sheriff's Office confirmed two primary resident homes were lost early Saturday morning due to the high winds along with increased and unpredictable fire activity in the area of Horseshoe Subdivsion.

Firefighters were in the area throughout the night and early morning providing structure protection to those homes; during increased erratic fire behavior as the cold front passed early this morning, they had to evacuate the immediate area surrounding these structures.

While officials said they regret the loss of property, the number one goal is always the safety of the public and the firefighters. The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office deputies notified the landowners and they are currently coordinating with the incident management team liaisons.

Saturday morning update

SHERIDAN — The Rocky Mountain Area Complex Incident Management Team 3 Incident Commander Casey Cheesbrough confirmed updates for the Elk Fire Saturday.

The size of the fire has reached 62,104 acres with 0% contained. A total of 584 personnel are working on the fire. The fires location has reached six miles northwest of Dayton.

Fire crews were very busy overnight around the fire perimeter, incident command reported Saturday morning. The highest fire activity was experienced on the southeastern side of the fire. Crews were forced to evacuate from subdivisions along U.S. Highway 14 due to extreme fire behavior associated with the cold front passage at approximately 1:30 a.m.

On the northwest area of the fire crews conducted a quick burning operation along County Road 144, in the vicinity of Gay Creek to stop the spread of the fire. This firefighting was done by hotshot crews, engines, heavy equipment and water tenders.

As fire behavior moderated in the early morning hours, crews returned to the area to resume structure protection work.

Current situation (as of 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5)

Fire behavior is expected to remain high Saturday, as winds will likely push fire to the southeast and downslope movement is likely to be seen on the face of the mountain.

Along the eastern side of the fire, crews will continue to extinguish areas of heat along established firelines; that area did not see movement overnight. Crews will continue structure protection work in the subdivisions along U.S. Highway 14 now that the fire front has passed by.

Structure protection work is ongoing in the Burgess Junction area; this work includes multiple structure preparation techniques such as the removal of vegetation near structures, construction of fireline, and placement of hose and sprinklers where possible.

Firefighter and public safety remain the top priority. The tactics used to suppress the fire will be determined by the terrain, fire and weather conditions, and medical response time with a focus on only implementing plans and tactics that have a high probability of success.

A Red Flag Warning runs through 6 p.m. Saturday. The critical fire weather is primarily due to continued high winds. The winds are forecast to continue out of the northwest with speeds 15-25 mph and gusts to 35 mph Saturday morning and into early afternoon. Wind speeds are expected to decrease around 6 p.m.

It is anticipated that the Elk Fire will continue to put up a smoke column; please go to theAirNow websitefor smoke information.

Fire moves rapidly overnight (7 a.m. update)

Fire activity caused night operations crews to pull out of structure protection work. Once it is safe, these crews will reengage, according to Bighorn National Forest officials.

The forecasted cold front has passed over the area and winds will start to moderate as we move to daybreak and throughout the day. Winds will continue to be out of the northwest and start to decrease from 15-30 mph Saturday morning to 15-25 mph into the evening. Relative humidity will remain in low 20 percentiles.

Sheridan County Sheriff's Office issued additional evacuation notices at 3 and 6 a.m. Saturday.

Law enforcement will work to contact people in the new evacuation area. If the town of Dayton is asked to evacuate, a new alert will be sent, and the town siren will be activated. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed.

Residents are urged to stay informed by followingSheridan County GovernmentandBighorn National Forestcommunication channels and be prepared for additional changes.

For past updates, click through additional pages.

Take caution with certain activities

• Perform welding, grinding or task that can generate a spark during the early morning or late evening times.

• Avoid using a burn barrel for trash disposal.

• Keep recreational fires small and late at night.

• Avoid parking on dry grass, as the heat from mufflers and catalytic converters can ignite a fire.

• Check trailer chains to ensure they do not drag on the pavement and cause sparks.

• Have a fire extinguisher or water sprayer readily available if working in grassy areas.

• Smoking only in areas cleared of burnable materials.

Air quality alert issued for Sheridan County

The NWS-Billings office has issued an Air Quality alert for Sheridan County that will remain in effect (pending unforeseen weather changes) until Monday, Oct. 7 at 1 p.m., according to Sheridan County Public Health Public Health Response Coordinator Edward Hinzman Friday.

Currently, Sheridan city Air Quality Index (AQI) monitors are showing a shift into the Moderate range, with continued air quality deterioration expected throughout the day Friday and into the weekend.For reference, recommendations for each AQI range are as follows:

Recommendations for Moderate AQI:

Everyone: OK to open windows and go outdoors

Unusually sensitive individuals: Consider making outdoor activities light and short in duration. Go inside to cleaner air if you develop symptoms (irritation, shortness of breath, etc.).

Recommendations for Unhealthy for sensitive groups AQI:

Everyone: Consider lighter and shorter outdoor activities

Sensitive groups: Go inside to cleaner air if you have symptoms (irritation, shortness of breath, etc.)

Recommendations Unhealthy category AQI:

Everyone: Keep outdoor activities light and short. Go inside to cleaner air if you have symptoms.

Sensitive groups*: Consider moving all activities inside. Go inside to cleaner air if you have symptoms.

Areas that are now in “Go” or “Set” will see law enforcement presence and will be contacted by law enforcement.

Go (meaning you will be evacuated from your residence)

• Eatons’ Ranch

• Pass Creek Road and Twin Creek Road west of Parkman

• Tongue River Canyon west of Dayton, where the pavement turns to dirt

• Little Bighorn Canyon and Little Horn Road

Set (meaning start the pre-evacuation process by organizing a plan and packing items)

• West of Beckton Road from Dayton, continuing south to the intersection of Beckton Road and Big Goose Road. This also includes the area west of Rapid Creek Road.

• South of Twin Creek Road from Parkman, north of Amsden Road, and west of Wyoming Highway 343. This includes residences along Smith Creek Road and Columbus Creek Road.

Ready (meaning be prepared to evacuate if necessary)

• The area west of Bear Gulch Trail to Big Horn Road to Beaver Creek Road to Owl Creek Road and then directly north to Soldier Creek Road and then west to Beckton Road.

• South of Montana state line to Wyoming Highway 343, east to Interstate 90, and east to Barker Road. This includes residences in the Parkman Hills Subdivision and residences along the west side of Barker Road.

All road closures (with local and emergency personnel access only, unless otherwise noted)

• Beckton Hall Road at the intersection with Big Goose Road

• Big Horn Road at intersection of Beaver Creek Road

• Big Goose is closed at the intersection with Beckton Road

• Highway 14 between Dayton and Burgess Junction (hard closure, no access)

• Pass Creek Road: County Road 144 from the intersection of Highway 345 and Pass Creek Road)

• Twin Creek Road (access off of Railway Avenue in Parkman)

• Smith Creek Road (intersection of Highway 343 and Smith Creek Road)

• Tongue Canyon Road (at the River Road)

• Beckton Road from Dayton to Big Goose is now closed including access from Soldier Creek Road to all except local residents.

•Little Horn Road south of Montana state line.

Friday evening fire activity update (10 p.m. Oct. 4)

The fire was measured at 55,618 acres at 6:15 p.m. The wind speed has increased at Burgess Junction; the night operations fire crews are continuing structure protection work.

There will be another community meeting at the Tongue River Middle School in Ranchester at 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024.

Munsick begins fire relief fund

Ian Munsick — Sheridan native and popular country artist — started a GoFundMe fundraiser to benefit northern Wyoming fire departments.

Donations made to the Elk Fire Relief Fund will be funneled back to the following fire departments and local agencies to provide support needed to combat the fires and prevent further widespread damage.

  • Bureau of Indian Affairs - Division of Wildland Fire Management
  • Big Horn Fire Department
  • Clearmont Fire District
  • County Emergency Management
  • Dayton Fire Department
  • Goose Valley Fire Department
  • Ranchester Fire Department
  • Sheridan County Emergency Management
  • Sheridan Fire Department
  • Sheridan Area Rural Fire District
  • Story Volunteer Fire Department

"Rural Wyoming relies heavily on volunteer firefighters, and right now their resources are being spread thin," Munsick said in his GoFundMe description.

Gov. Gordon provides state support for Elk Fire

CHEYENNE — Driven by high winds, the Elk Fire in Sheridan County has burned more than 32,000 acres as of Oct. 2 and continues to threaten the communities of Parkman and Dayton. The lightning-caused fire is being managed by the U.S. Forest Service’s Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3, with approximately 200 personnel currently assigned to the fire. U.S. 14 between Dayton and Burgess Junction will remain closed indefinitely, as the fire has crossed the highway at mile marker 76.

Gov. Mark Gordon has authorized the deployment of the Wyoming National Guard to support the Elk Fire with on-site medevac resources for firefighter safety and use, if necessary.

Gordon is responding to the wildfires by directing all availablestate fire resources to be utilized for active fires and new starts. These include Wyoming State Forestry helicopter and helitack firefighters, two Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs), and Wyoming Smokebusters. Much of Wyoming is under Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watch conditions , which could result in new fire starts and a need for initial attack resources.

The state is also cooperating with the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management statewide, who are providing additional aviation resources, including Large Air Tankers (LATs), SEATS, helicopters and scooper planes. Ground resources, such as hotshot crews, Type 1 and 2 hand crews, and engines are also being directed for suppression response.

Additional information on the Elk Fire is available by visiting theInciWeb pageor theBighorn National Forest Facebook page.

Mule Deer Foundation raising funds for wildfire ravaged northern Wyoming

The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) is stepping forward to help heal this wounded landscape. We are committed to raising $60,000 by Oct. 31 to restore the habitat that wildlife and ranchers alike depend on. The foundation's efforts will focus on rebuilding essential fencing, providing seed for burned areas, and combating invasive species that threaten to take hold in this fragile environment, according to a release sent Oct. 4 from the foundation.

Friday afternoon fire activity update

The fire has been active on the west side Friday and is putting up heavy smoke as it is burning in heavy timber along the Dry Fork drainage, according to Bighorn National Forest officials. This portion of the fire is actively moving to both the southwest and northwest.

The northeastern side of the fire has shown little fire activity in most areas thus far and is not moving actively. The fire is burning patches of timber in the Tongue River Canyon; these areas are within the current fire perimeter. And resources are confident lines in this area will hold.

There has been an increase in activity west of Steamboat Point near Cutler Creek. Air resources are being used heavily to slow spread toward Highway 14 and structures in that area.

East of Steamboat Point, the fire is active south of Highway 14. Additional evacuations were ordered earlier in the day for the Eatons’ Ranch area. Airtankers have been dropping retardant throughout the day to slow fire spread in this area.

There is a hard closure to all traffic, to include fire resources in this area.

City takes actions to protect treatments plants

The city of Sheridan is deploying additional resources to protect the city’s water treatment plants during the ongoing Elk Fire. City staff has cleared extra vegetation around the Big Goose Water Treatment Plant and the intake site to reduce the fire risk. The U.S. Forest Service has also allocated extra resources to safeguard this facility, ensuring residents and Sheridan Area Water System (SAWS) customers continue to have a supply of clean water. Additionally, the Elk Fire Incident Command has prioritized the entire water system as an infrastructure protection priority. The Sheridan water intake supplies water to both the Big Goose and the Sheridan water treatment plants which in turn provides freshwater to residents of the City of Sheridan and to SAWS customers.

The Big Goose Water Intake Facility is expected to be able to continuously provide water to the Sheridan plant regardless of the Elk Fire’s impact.

The Big Goose Water Treatment Plant is situated in such a way as to minimize the risk of fire and can be operated remotely with redundant systems. Should it fail, the impact will be minimal as the Sheridan Water Treatment Plant has the ability to back-flow water as far as Beckton Hall Road. While the freshwater treatment system is not currently in danger, the City of Sheridan is taking precautions to ensure a calm and organized response in the event the facilities are impacted.

There is currently no requirement for residents to take any special measures, but the city recommends residents remain vigilant throughout the weekend and keep abreast of updates.

The City of Sheridan and all of its partner organizations are committed to providing updates as more information becomes available, ensuring citizens are always informed about the situation.

Full crews prepare for heavy activity Friday, into weekend

DAYTON — Fire activity on the Elk Fire in the Bighorn National Forest remained fairly quiet overnight Thursday, but in preparation for incoming weather — forecasted high winds and high temperatures Friday and Saturday — Sheridan County Sheriff's Office issued increased evacuation statuses for a wider area in Sheridan County and fire crews prepped areas to preserve structures.

All hands on deck

The Rocky Mountain Area Complex Incident Management Team 3 will utilize all 528 personnel to fight fires Friday and Saturday. The fire remains at 0% containment and consumed 51,115 acres thus far.

Red flag warning issued

A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for Friday at noon until Saturday at 6 p.m. The forecast includes temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s and relative humidity in the teens. Winds are forecast to shift from the southeast to southwest and west during the day, gusting up to 30 mph in the afternoon. Overnight Friday, the winds are expected to shift to be out of the northwest and gusting up to 50 mph; this is associated with the passage of a cold front. With this anticipated hot, windy weather, it is likely there will be an increase to the size of the fire.

Crews prepare Thursday for weekend

After having previously used a bulldozer to create a fireline, fire crews utilized an Unmanned Aircraft System to implement a successful burnout operation west of the Horseshoe Subdivision Thursday, the incident management Friday morning update said. By intentionally placing fire on the ground between the fireline and the main fire, fire managers were able control the rate at which the vegetation was burned under calmer conditions. This tactic was utilized to lessen the chance of fire advancing upon structures in the future. Overnight Thursday, crews continued burning vegetation to increase the distance between structures and the southeast side of the main fire.

Friday, crews will continue preparing structures to be defensible from fire in the Little Bighorn Canyon. Along the eastern side of the fire, crews will continue to extinguish areas of heat along established firelines. This same work will be done in the vicinity of Thursday'sburning operation. Around the perimeter of the fire, crews will use a variety of structure preparation techniques, including the removal of vegetation near structures, constructing fireline and placing hose and sprinklers where possible.

Firefighter and public safety remain the top priority. The tactics used to suppress the fire will be determined by the terrain, fire and weather conditions, and medical response time with a focus on only implementing plans and tactics that have a high probability of success.

New evacuation areas issued

Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office has placed a few new areas into new evacuation status to give residents time to plan ahead Thursday evening. A similar weather pattern occurred over the fire area last weekend, which caused erratic fire behavior.

New areas in “Set” include:

• South of Twin Creek Road from Parkman, north of Amsden Road, and west of Wy HWY 343. This includes residences along Smith Creek Road and Columbus Creek Road.

• Eatons’ Ranch

New areas in “Ready” include:

• South of Montana state line to Wyoming Highway 343, east to Interstate 90, and east to Barker Road. This includes residences in the Parkman Hills Subdivision and residences along the west side of Barker Road.

• West of Beckton Road from Dayton, continuing south to the intersection of Beckton Road and Big Goose Road. This also includes the area west of Rapid Creek Road.

Additionally, Columbus Creek Road is closed at the intersection of Wyoming Highway 343 and Columbus Creek Road.

With an anticipated increase in fire activity due to critical fire weather today through Saturday, please keep all county and local roads clear. If you stop to look, you could stop first responders.

Air suppression efforts continue Friday

To slow fire spread, the incident management team on the Elk Fire is making full use of its air resources, to include airtankers, according to the Bighorn National Forest. There are varying sizes of airtankers used in wildland firefighting. The Elk Fire has had various resources attached: single engine airtankers, large airtankers, and very large airtankers.

Friday, multiple large airtankers were used to drop retardant on the Elk Fire. A large airtanker can hold up to 3,000 pounds and a very large airtanker can drop 9,400 lbs.A videoshows airtankers dropping retardant in the area of Eatons' Ranch and the Wolf Creek drainage, south of Dayton.

Additionally, there are 10 helicopters assigned to this fire and are being utilized to drop water in areas to assist firefighters on the ground; these air assets will be used as long as possible Friday.

Make room for emergency response on roads

Red Grade Road 26 in the Bighorn National Forest is being heavily used at this time. Please slow down and use caution, especially around blind corners, Bighorn National Forest Public Affairs Specialist Sara Evans Kirol said in a release Friday, Oct. 4.

If you decide to remove equipment such as campers from open areas on Forest, it is not recommended to park your property in another location on the Forest. The Elk Fire closure remains in effect and access is not being granted to anyone outside of firefighting and law enforcement personnel. Keep in mind that closure boundaries could change.

Red Grade Road 26 remains open at this time. However, it could be closed at a later point to support firefighting efforts on the Elk Fire. Consider taking alternative routes to the west and around to avoid Red Grade congestion.

For previous updates on the fire, click through additional pages below.

Sheriff issues new evacuation statuses

Working with the team managing the Elk Fire, the Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office has placed a few new areas into new evacuation status to give residents time to plan ahead. This has been done in advance of incoming weather with forecasted high winds to start tomorrow afternoon and continue into Saturday. A similar weather pattern occurred over the fire area last weekend, which caused erratic fire behavior.

New areas in “Set” include:

• South of Twin Creek Road from Parkman, north of Amsden Road, and west of Wy HWY 343. This includes residences along Smith Creek Road and Columbus Creek Road.

• Eatons’ Ranch

New areas in “Ready” include:

• South of Montana state line to Wy HWY 343, east to I-90, and east to Barker Road. This includes residences in the Parkman Hills Subdivision and residences along the west side of Barker Road.

• West of Beckton Road from Dayton, continuing south to the intersection of Beckton Road and Big Goose Road. This also includes the area west of Rapid Creek Road.

Additionally, Columbus Creek Road is closed at the intersection of Wy HWY 343 and Columbus Creek Road.


Fire consumes nearly 50,000 acres

Updates from the Rocky Mountain Area Complex Incident Management Team 3 Thursday morning showed large growth in the lightning-caused Elk Fire near Dayton Wednesday, now totaling 49,555 acres burned with 0% containment and 200 personnel working to preserve human life first and structures second.

Hot, windy weather is anticipated to start Friday afternoon and continue into Saturday, which will likely bring increased fire activity and spread.

The fire was less active overnight due to cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity over the fire.

Access closed to community trailheads

ThePoverty Flat, Bear Gulch East and Aspens Trailheads at the Sheridan Community Land Trust's Red Grade Trailssystem areclosedin accordance with the U.S. Forest Service - Bighorn National Forest closures related to the Elk Fire.

The land trust asks that community members not use the trails or the trailheads until the closure is lifted.

Base and Springs Trailhead at Red Grade Trails remain open as do all trails on the Soldier Ridge Trail System and The Green Room Trail.

Bighorn National Forest extends closure to north of Red Grade

The Big Horn National Forest has extended the forest closure and is now closed from Red Grade Road north. Stage 2 fire restrictions are now in effect in the national forest.

Sibley fire confirmed as part of Elk Fire

Complex Incident Management Team 3 officials confirmed fire at Sibley Lake and campground. Officials could not confirm start time or size, but confirmed that fire in the Sibley area is part of the larger Elk Fire.

The team is working on a larger fire update this afternoon.

All schools on the Tongue River side of district to be closed Oct. 3

Tongue River High School, elementary, middle school and Slack School will be closed Oct. 3 and there will be no virtual online expectation for schooling.

TRE and TRMS will dismiss as normal at 4 p.m. Oct. 2, TRHS was online and Slack was closed.

At 11 a.m. Oct. 2, Sheridan County School District 1 Superintendent Jeff Jones held a Zoom meeting with a large group of administrators and supervisory staff from across the district. In the meeting, Jones gathered information regarding the current status of the school district as a result of the fire.

“Not surprisingly, the impact is getting more and more difficult to manage. We have a large, growing number of staff members absent because they are either fighting the fire, needing to leave to get to Dayton so they can prepare for the potential of an evacuation, etc. We have many more staff members who, while they may still be in school, are incredibly shaken because in one way or another, they are greatly impacted by what is happening at this moment,” Jones said in an email to SCSD1 staff and families.

All activities on the Tongue River side are canceled for the balance of the week and weekend. This includes practices as well as home and away games. Efforts will be made to reschedule the events.

“There are scenarios where we simply don’t have bus drivers, coaches, etc. We also don’t want students to be coming in and out of the parking lot at TRHS to get things to get to a practice or game,” Jones said in an email to district staff and families. “Finally, to be frank, it doesn’t make sense to be playing a ballgame out of town while your family’s home is in jeopardy of burning down. Every effort will be made to reschedule events.”

For families who need extra time to prepare things in Dayton, there will be staff at TRE and TRMS who are willing to stay longer after school with children. The district also has extra space near the bus barn in Ranchester if people need extra space for campers, Jones said in the email.

Town of Dayton in "ready" pre-evacuation order

Here are the most recent evacuation orders, as of 10:55 a.m. Wednesday:

The Sheridan County Sheriff has increased the evacuation status of both the Eagle Ridge Subdivision and the residences directly adjacent to the east of U.S. Highway 14, going up the mountain, to “Set.” If you are in either of these areas, please take the time now to gather up important things and be prepared to evacuate if notified.

The town of Dayton has been placed in a “Ready," or pre-evacuation, status. If you live in the town of Dayton, take the time now to think about what you would want to take with you or where you might go if the Town of Dayton is put into a “Set” status.

• Pass Creek Road and Twin Creek Road west of Parkman

• Tongue River Canyon west of Dayton, where the pavement turns to dirt.

• Town of Parkman residents and residents of north of Parkman, on both the east and west sides of Highway 345 up to the Montana state line are now under a pre-evacuation or, “ready,” notice. This does not include the Hersey Road area.

Residents in the “ready” stage should be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Emergency personnel have contacted all affected residents directly.

The town of Dayton is not under a pre-evacuation notice or “ready” status at this time.

Fire exceeds 32,000 acres burned

The Elk Fire grew to 32,069 acres burned with no containment as of 9 p.m. Tuesday. Additional air and ground resources arrived Tuesday to assist in fire control efforts.

"It's important to note the effectiveness of air support is dependent on wind conditions and smoke coverage," Sheridan County Emergency Management Coordinator Jesse Ludikhuize said in a press release.

Residents in Dayton and Ranchester areas should expect to see a significant increase in emergency vehicles.

Highway 14 still closed

Highway 14 from Dayton to Burgess Junction remains closed, and all other closures from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to Forest Service roads — see below — remain in effect.

"We're working diligently to minimize the impact on the community while keeping everyone informed," Ludikhuize said. "Please continue to respect evacuation notices and obey all road closures. It is crucial to stay out of the fire area to allow emergency personnel to work without obstruction."

Highway 14 closure will be continually evaluated and adjustments will be made as conditions allow. The road remains closed due to thick smoke, fire conditions and the need to ensure the safety of emergency responders.

Fire impacts one firefighter, six buildings

The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., signifying critical fire weather conditions, including low humidity and high winds, which could exacerbate the fire.

Since the beginning of the fire, six non-primary residential structures have been destroyed, including barns, outhouses and other non-primary residential buildings. All affected property owners have been notified by emergency personnel.

One firefighter sustained non-life-threatening injuries Tuesday, requiring transport to Sheridan Memorial Hospital, where the person is currently receiving treatment.

Larger crew assumes management

Wyoming Type 3 Team transferred management of the fire to Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3 at 7 p.m. Tuesday.

The Complex Incident Management Team 3 will host a public meeting Wednesday at Tongue River Middle School — relocated from Tongue River High School Wednesday at 11 a.m. due to growing evacuation concerns in Dayton — starting at 7 p.m.

The in-person meeting will be recorded and published later by the team, who will make themselves available to answer questions and address public concerns related to the fire.

The new incident management team assumed operational control Monday at 7 p.m., and all updates will come from that team. The group will establish a public contact number, to be shared soon, according to Ludikhuize.

No donations of food or supplies are needed for firefighters or emergency personnel at this time.

Students remain online Wednesday

Emergency management personnel contacted SCSD1 Superintendent Jeff Jones at 12:15 a.m. and advised that students and staff at Tongue River High School only to go online Wednesday.

“I will continue to stay in touch as I get more information in the morning,” Jones said in an email to SCSD1 staff and families. “Please continue to pray for our firefighters, emergency responders and all of the families impacted.”

Slack School is also closed.

Community support

Sheridan County YMCA will provide shower passes for anyone displaced by the Elk Fire. Check in with the front desk with your information and mention the fire relief effort. Additionally, while space allows, the Y is providing space for parking campers, but they do not have electricity hookups. To reserve a spot, call and ask for availability and fill out a form at the front desk to check in.

Those needing a place to take livestock or a place to stay in a camper may evacuate to the Sheridan County Fairgrounds. If you need a place to stay and you are evacuated, contact Sheridan County Emergency Management at 307-752-2174. Emergency Management officials said staff will work with any resident that has pets to ensure they are also sheltered.

UPDATE: 5:15 a.m. Oct. 2

Due to the rapidly changing conditions of the Elk Fire, evacuation orders have been issued for Pass Creek Road and Twin Creek Road west of Parkman, and Tongue River Canyon west of Dayton, where the pavement turns to dirt.

In addition, the Town of Parkman residents and residents of north of Parkman, on both the east and west sides of Highway 345 up to the Montana state line are now under a pre-evacuation or, “ready,” notice. This does not include the Hersey Road area. Residents in the “ready” stage should be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Emergency personnel have contacted all affected residents directly.

The Town of Dayton is not under a pre-evacuation notice or “ready” status at this time.

UPDATE: 12:38 a.m. Oct. 2

DAYTON — Because of worsening fire conditions near Dayton, Sheridan County School District 1 is being advised to have students and staff at Tongue River High School to stay online Oct. 2.

Emergency management personnel contacted SCSD1 Superintendent Jeff Jones at 12:15 a.m. and advised that students and staff at TRHS only to go online Wednesday.

“I will continue to stay in touch as I get more information in the morning,” Jones said in an email to SCSD1 staff and families. “Please continue to pray for our firefighters, emergency responders and all of the families impacted.”

Slack School is also closed.

UPDATE: 11:45 p.m. Oct. 1

DAYTON — Evacuations have been ordered forallthe residenceson Pass Creek Road between East Pass Creek and Twin Creek Road andfrom the X bar X Ranch north to the state line.

Authorities have contacted residents.

The ranch is located at 846 Pass Creek Road in Parkman.

.

UPDATE: 5 p.m. Oct. 1

DAYTON — Fire suppression efforts continue. The latest update includes additional acreage burned, a minor injury, a scheduled public meeting and Tongue River High School students returning to in-person instruction.

Fire exceeds32,000acres burned

The Elk Fire grew to32,069acres burned with no containment as of 9 p.m. Tuesday. Additional air and ground resources arrived Tuesday to assist in fire control efforts.

"It's important to note the effectiveness of air support is dependent on wind conditions and smoke coverage," Sheridan County Emergency Management Coordinator Jesse Ludikhuize said in a press release.

Residents in Dayton and Ranchester areas should expect to see a significant increase in emergency vehicles.

Highway 14 from Dayton to Burgess Junction remains closed, and all other closures from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to Forest Service roads — see below — remain in effect.

"We're working diligently to minimize the impact on the community while keeping everyone informed," Ludikhuize said. "Please continue to respect evacuation notices and obey all road closures. It is crucial to stay out of the fire area to allow emergency personnel to work without obstruction."

Highway 14 closure will be continually evaluated and adjustments will be made as conditions allow. The road remains closed due to thick smoke, fire conditions and the need to ensure the safety of emergency responders.

The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., signifying critical fire weather conditions, including low humidity and high winds, which could exacerbate the fire.

Since the beginning of the fire, six non-primary residential structures have been destroyed, including barns, outhouses and other non-primary residential buildings. All affected property owners have been notified by emergency personnel.

One firefighter sustained non-life-threatening injuries Tuesday,requiring transport to Sheridan Memorial Hospital, where the personis currently receiving treatment.

Larger crew assumes management

Wyoming Type 3 Team transferred management of the fire to Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3 at 7 p.m. Tuesday.

The Complex Incident Management Team 3 will host a public meeting Wednesday at Tongue River High School in Dayton, starting at 7 p.m.

The in-person meeting will be recorded and published later by the team, who will make themselves available to answer questions and address public concerns related to the fire.

The new incident management team assumed operational control Monday at 7 p.m., and all updates will come from that team. The group will establish a public contact number, to be shared soon, according to Ludikhuize.

No donations of food or supplies are needed for firefighters or emergency personnel at this time.

Students return to in-person learning Wednesday

Tongue River High School students will return to the physical classroom Wednesday.

"The situation has significantly improved near the high school and there is a presence of personnel and equipment (on the ground and in the air) in that area which has reduced the level of risk," Sheridan County School District 1 superintendent Jeff Jones said in a Oct. 1 email to district parents. "Obviously we will continue to monitor the situation, literally by the minute. If things change, we will adjust as needed and that will be communicated out to all staff and families."

As an extra precaution, several buses and drivers will be stationed at Tongue River High School during the school day. This will allow the district to evacuate the school in a matter of minutes if necessary.

Sports practices at the high school will resume on the afternoon of Oct. 1. The district will monitor the air quality for outdoor activities, assuring students with breathing issues minimize exposure or be excused all together from practices outside if that is what they need. If you are a parent of a child in this situation, please reach out to your child's principal or coach if you have questions or concerns.

The Slack School will continue online schooling on Oct. 2.

Community support

Sheridan County YMCA will provide shower passes for anyone displaced by the Elk Fire. Check in with the front desk with your information and mention the fire relief effort. Additionally, while space allows, the Y is providing space for parking campers, but they do not have electricity hookups. To reserve a spot, call and ask for availability and fill out a form at the front desk to check in.

The Defense Health Agency announced TRICARE beneficiaries in Sheridan County may receive emergency prescription refills now through Oct. 11, 2024, due to the Elk Fire.

To receive an emergency refill of prescription medications, TRICARE beneficiaries should take their prescription bottle to any TRICARE retail network pharmacy. If the bottle is unavailable or the label is damaged or missing, beneficiaries should contact Express Scripts, Inc., or their retail network pharmacy for assistance.

To find a network pharmacy, beneficiaries may call Express Scripts at 1-877-363-1303, or search thenetwork pharmacy locator. If possible, visit the pharmacy where the prescription was filled.

UPDATE: 8:38 a.m. Oct. 1

PARKMAN — The Elk Fire continues to burn across the Bighorn mountain range stretching from Pass Creek Road to the Dayton area.

Tongue River High School closed Tuesday

Sheridan County School District 1 Superintendent Jeff Jones said Tongue River High School will remain closed Tuesday due to the fire.

“There is going to be a lot of action with equipment and personnel moving in the Tongue River High School area, (so) emergency personnel has asked that we keep students and staff at TRHS out again (Tuesday),” Jones said. All students from Tongue River High School will attend classes online.

Travel restrictions and road closures

According to the latest report from the Bighorn National Forest Service, the latest routes to be restricted to local residence traffic are:

• Pass Creek Road, County Road 144 (from intersection of Highway 345 and Pass Creek Road)

• Twin Creek Road (Access off of Parkman)

• Smith Creek Road (Intersection of Highway 343 and Smith Creek Road)

• Tongue River Canyon Road

• U.S. Highway 14 between Dayton and Burgess Junction (as of 7 a.m. Oct. 1, estimated opening time is unknown)

Evacuations remain in place along these routes. Law enforcement and fire personnel are asking people to respect the closures on Pass Creek Road along with other restrictions listed.

Due to the location, nature and direction of the Elk Fire, the Wyoming Department of Transportation and Incident Command are concerned for the safety of the traveling public, hunters, campers and residents of the Burgess Junction area, and are asking those individuals to evacuate the area. A Bighorn National Forest Closure Order is in place for firefighter and public safety. The area closed is the area north of US Highway 14 and east of the border of the Medicine Wheel Ranger District and the Tongue Ranger District.

Individuals with properties or personal belongings accessible from U.S. Highway 14 and U.S. Highway 14A will not be allowed access.

The Bighorn Forest Service and WYDOT are asking the public to avoid any unnecessary travel or parking in the area that may impede in the ongoing efforts to suppress this fire.

The Wyoming Highway Patrol will be operating gates at Dayton and Burgess Junction. It is unknown how long the closure will last.

Size and containment

Cooler temperatures helped firefighting efforts Monday.

According to a report from the Wyoming Type 3 Team Tuesday morning, the fire has burned approximately 25,085 acres and is 0% contained.

There are six hand crews, three engines, four heavy equipment, two Type 1 helicopters, one Type 2 helicopter, one Type 3 helicopter and two air attack battling the blaze.

Monday, firefighting operations focused on the northern and eastern sides of the fire with crews working to remove vegetation by use of hand tools and strategically putting fire on the ground to consume vegetation, or fuel, between structures and the fire. Air resources were used to assist ground operations and ensure for firefighter safety. Tuesday, firefighters will continue to build fire line around the fire, where it is safe to do so, with the assistance of air resources. The strategy being implemented on this fire is full suppression. Firefighter and public safety remain the top priority, and the tactics used to suppress the fire will be determined by the terrain, fire and weather conditions, and medical response time.

Temperatures are expected to be in the mid-60s on the fire area Tuesday with winds changing to be out of the southwest and relative humidity around 18%. The shift in wind may cause the fire to be active in different areas than Monday.

Elk Fire update (as of 2:10 p.m. Oct. 25) (2024)
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