JACKSON, Wyo. — The Fish Creek Fire now burns across 24,904 acres in the Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF), according to an update by BTNF on Tuesday, Sept. 10. Air quality through northwestern Wyoming varies from normal to “very unhealthy” due to pervasive smoke from the wildfire.
Air Quality Alerts have been issued frequently by the National Weather Service since the lightning-sparked fire began burning in mid-August. AirNow.Gov, which monitors air quality as it relates to active wildfires, measured the quality in Kelly on Tuesday morning as “unhealthy,” at an air quality index of 185. Moose was considered “moderate” at a rating of 89. Other measuring points in the valley, including near Snow King and Jenny Lake, report good quality.
“There will be unhealthy air quality in some locations, especially in low-lying drainages, and roadway visibility could be impacted by the smoke from the fire,” BTNF’s update said. “Individuals sensitive to higher Air Quality Indexes (AQI) should avoid physical activities outdoors or at least postpone those actions until the air quality improves.”
BTNF noted that the Cottonwood Creek area is the site of the largest fire growth and “greatest fire behavior.” Crews are expected to monitor fire behavior along US26 and near structures in the Togwotee Pass area. BTNF said personnel will perform work along Deception Road, and along Upper Flagstaff Road, where they’ll clear vegetation and smaller trees from the roadside.
Cooler weather conditions and potential rain showers this week are expected to reduce active fire behavior, BTNF said.
