Firefighters continue to make steady progress on the Kinky Creek Fire, which remains 86% contained. The significant progress achieved on the incident is a direct result of the dedication, skill, and perseverance of firefighters who have worked tirelessly in some of the most challenging conditions on the Bridger-Teton National Forest.
Since the fire was first reported, crews have successfully navigated steep and rugged terrain, remote wilderness conditions, hazardous fire-weakened trees, rapidly changing weather, thunderstorms, and strong winds while steadily advancing containment objectives. Their commitment to safety and operational excellence has allowed firefighters to make substantial gains while protecting the natural resources and values at risk within the Gros Ventre Wilderness.
Today’s operational period will focus on securing established containment lines, patrolling the fire perimeter, and identifying and extinguishing any remaining hotspots. Firefighters will continue mop-up operations where needed to ensure the fire remains within established control features.
While containment remains high, fire managers anticipate the potential for increased smoke activity during the afternoon and evening hours. Higher daytime temperatures, low relative humidity, and gusty winds may contribute to visible smoke from interior pockets of heat within the fire perimeter. These conditions do not indicate a loss of containment but are expected as fuels continue to dry and smoldering material becomes more active during the warmest parts of the day.
Weather conditions will remain a factor in firefighting operations. Overnight relative humidity recovery is expected to be minimal, which may allow fuels to remain receptive to burning conditions through the night and into the following day. Fire managers will continue to monitor weather conditions and adjust tactics as needed to maintain progress toward incident objectives.
Safety remains the highest priority. Firefighters continue to work in steep, rugged terrain with hazardous fire-weakened trees and other operational challenges. Crews are maintaining a deliberate approach to risk management while completing suppression and patrol activities.
Aircraft may be utilized as needed to support suppression objectives and monitor fire activity.
Forest trail and area closures remain in effect to protect public and firefighter safety. The public is asked to avoid Kinky Creek Road; Kinky Creek and Clear Creek trails; and the Brewster, Lunch, and Chateau Lake areas while suppression activities continue.
The lightning-caused fire remains at 880 acres and is 86% contained. Ninety-five personnel are assigned to the incident.
The Kinky Creek Fire is located west of Darwin Ranch, near Upper Gros Ventre Falls in the Gros Ventre Wilderness on the Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest.