JACKSON, Wyo. — The lighting-caused Pack Trail Fire now covers 17,859 acres in the Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF), according to a Monday evening update from BTNF.
The neighboring Fish Creek Fire continues to put up smoke, as well, now estimated to be 25,081 acres in size. Smoke from both wildfires continues to impact air quality and visibility in the valley; the National Weather Service has extended its Air Quality Alert through Wednesday afternoon.
BTNF noted that fire behavior was moderate on Monday as winds calmed, allowing aerial resources to be deployed. Four single engine air tankers, two Fire Boss water scoopers, two heavy helicopters and two medium helicopters are being used in suppression efforts.
The Forest Service updated the fire closure area on Tuesday morning to prevent recreationists from entering the area. See the updated closure here. These closures will remain in effect through Oct. 15 unless rescinded.
Evacuation orders are still in place for the Brooks Lake Road, East and West Pinnacle Drive, Breccia Drive areas, along with US26 from mileposts 30 to 42: Long Creek subdivision, Lava Mountain subdivisions, Triangle C Ranch, old KOA, Bourbon subdivision, Timberline Ranch and Rawhide Ranch. In addition, Fremont County Emergency Management has designated the Union Pass and Absaroka Ranch Road areas as Level 2 evacuation status, meaning those residents are not yet required to evacuate but should be ready to do so at a moment’s notice. See the agency’s Facebook page for details.
Fremont County Emergency Management told Buckrail that the shelter opened by the American Red Cross has closed, due to near-zero use by the public.
BTNF’s Monday update forecasted more dry weather and windy conditions for the week.
“Despite moderating fire behavior, the region remains very dry with a fire weather watch for tomorrow and a wind event forecasted for Weds.,” the update reads. “Residents and visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution with fire or possible ignition sources, stay out of posted closure areas and avoid areas generally around the fire impacted zone.”
Track the Pack Trail Fire and the Fish Creek Fire on InciWeb. Check on local air quality using AirNow.Gov.
