JACKSON, Wyo. — Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) shared a Pack Trail Fire update on Thursday, Oct. 10, noting that the fire has grown to the size of 67,376 acres.
A community meeting about the fire will be held on Thursday, Oct. 10, at 6 p.m. at Dubois’ National Museum of Military Vehicles. BTNF shared that 571 personnel have achieved 60% confinement on the wildfire.
The fire’s growth has resulted in an updated forest closure as of Wednesday, Oct. 9, which will be effective until Nov. 1, unless rescinded. Included in the new boundaries is the closure of Union Pass Road, closed from 531 Road to 370625 Road “for firefighter safety,” according to BTNF.
As previewed on Wednesday evening by Buckrail Meteorologist Alan Smith, smoky conditions in this dry weather are forecasted to persist for the next several days. Wind continues to be a factor in fire response. Air quality in Jackson continues to score in the “unhealthy” to “hazardous” range, so try to limit time outdoors if possible.
The fire has moved into the Cowboy Camp, Strawberry Warming Hut and Fish Creek Guard Station areas close to Union Pass Road, according to BTNF. Sprinklers are being used to slow the spread of the fire, along with retardant dropped by aircraft. The fire is creeping west along Burnt Ridge, but on the east side, firefighters reported calm fire behavior overnight, BTNF said.
“Sprinklers and structure protection continue to be implemented in the Long Valley, Teton Youth Camp and Union Pass Subdivision areas,” BTNF’s update reads. “On the north side, there was no new fire activity, but some heat remains in the interior and smoke may be visible. Crews continue to patrol the area checking for new smoke and growth.”
Evacuation warnings remain in place; Upper Gros Ventre remains at a “Set” level, and the previously announced residential areas in Fremont County remain at the “Go” level. Teton County residents are encouraged to sign up for Teton_WY Alerts to stay current on evacuation orders. Sign up for those on the Teton County Emergency Management website.
Track the Pack Trail Fire on InciWeb. Check on local air quality using AirNow.Gov. Find tips for dealing with wildfire smoke here.
