JACKSON, Wyo. — Several days of cool, wet weather have calmed behavior in the Kinky Creek Fire and allowed crews to make progress on suppression, but the fire is not out.
A Tuesday update from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) states that the wildland fire is currently estimated at 880 acres and is 12% contained. There are 134 personnel assigned to the incident in the Gros Ventre Wilderness. The fire is burning in heavy timber on steep, rugged terrain on the Jackson Ranger District of Bridger-Teton National Forest, about 3 miles west of Darwin Ranch.
Aircraft assigned to the fire are expected to conduct scooper operations in Jackson Lake today to support firefighting efforts. The statement warns boaters, paddlers and anglers to be on the lookout for low-flying aircraft. Recreationists are asked to stay clear of scoopers as they collect water throughout the day.
“Fire crews disengaged from the fire on Saturday due to hazardous conditions and incoming inclement weather, and returned to operations today,” reads the statement. “Firefighters are beginning mop-up operations and conducting structure assessments in the southeastern portion of the fire area nearest Darwin Ranch. These efforts will help identify and address any remaining heat near containment lines while ensuring structures and improvements remain protected.”
Firefighters are attempting to connect existing containment lines with natural barriers, such as rocky terrain and other landscape characteristics, in order to minimize impacts to the surrounding wilderness. On the northern end of the lightning-caused fire, crews continue trying to find ways to safely engage with the fire’s edge in direct suppression tactics, but steep slopes and heavy timber are presenting challenges.
The weekend’s precipitation did not extinguish the fire. Fire managers are continuing to track and address heat and hotspots in the interior. The following resources are currently assigned to the fire: helicopters, water scoopers, hand crews, engines, overhead personnel and support staff.
The public is asked to avoid certain areas near the fire, and the Darwin Ranch area is still under the “set” evacuation status. Keep track of the fire on InciWeb. Sign up for evacuation notices and more from Teton_WY Alerts.
