JACKSON, Wyo. — The Fish Creek Fire has grown to cover 23,911 acres in the Jackson Ranger District of Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF), according to an update from BTNF on Monday, Sept. 9.
On Sunday, BTNF said the fire was 22,107 acres; on Saturday, it was 19,952 acres.
“The western edge of the fire is burning towards and into some meadows which is slowing the growth of the fire on that side,” BTNF’s update reads. “On other sections of the fire perimeter, the fire is burning into the footprint of prior fires where there is less fuel, which is also limiting the growth of the fire in those areas. The most active part of the fire is in the Cottonwood Creek area. The fire is burning in standing, beetle-killed conifers and downed, dry trees and logs. This active fire behavior is creating the large columns of smoke that can be viewed from miles away.”
Fire personnel continue to monitor the US26 corridor and the Brooks Lake Lodge/Pinnacle residences area. BTNF said its aerial resources will provide support on Monday. The highway over Togwotee Pass remains open after it had been closed for much of last week. Drivers are encouraged to drive slowly and carefully through the smoky conditions and to watch for firefighters stationed along the roadside.
“The combination of warmer temperatures, lower humidities and stronger winds have prompted the National Weather Service to issue a Red Flag Warning for today,” BTNF’s update said. “Those same conditions are expected to increase the amount of visible smoke and fire behavior, especially single tree torching and spot fires. Wind gusts of 25 to 35 mph are expected throughout the afternoon and into the early evening hours.”
Smoke from the fire continues to affect the air quality in northwestern Wyoming. Sensitive groups are encouraged to limit time spent outdoors.
