(Teton County, WY) – After growing to 300 acres by Thursday morning, the Spread Creek Fire in the Bridger-Teton National Forest is now reported to be at 257 acres and is 5% contained, according to the May 15 update from the U.S. Forest Service-Bridger-Teton National Forest.
The acreage for the lightning-caused fire estimate has been lowered “to reflect more precise mapping data,” today’s update explains, as “initial estimates were based on the best available information at the time.”
The Spread Creek Fire is located near Sagebrush Flat in the Spread Creek Drainage, approximately three miles south of Highway 26/287, on the Blackrock Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest.
“Fire behavior moderated Wednesday night into Thursday after scattered showers and cooler overnight temperatures,” today’s release continues. “The fire saw minimal growth Thursday. High winds and dry conditions led to increased fire activity in the afternoon, with torching and some spotting. However, air and ground resources responded quickly and were able to suppress flare-ups. Crews have established hose lay around the heel of the fire and are going direct on the northwestern flank, working along the fire’s edge to strengthen control lines and limit fire spread. Today, crews will move in and continue strengthening containment lines.”
Total firefighting resources of the Teton Interagency Fire crews include: two type 1 helicopters, one type 3 helicopter, Infrared-capable UAS, four interagency hotshot crews, one type 2 initial attack crew, three type 3 engines, three type 6 engines, two suppression crews, and additional support resources. Approximately 150 personnel are assigned to the fire.
The update adds that sunny, dry, and windy weather is predicted for today, with wind gusts up to 25 mph and low relative humidity, but a gradual cooldown and possible precipitation could develop by Sunday.
The public is still being asked to avoid the Hatchet and Flagstaff roads and the fire, and folks can expect increased fire traffic on Highway 26/287 near the Blackrock Ranger Station.
Find the latest updates, maps and more on the Spread Creek Fire InciWeb page.
For other news, events and information, visit the Bridger-Teton National Forest website and follow the Bridger-Teton on Facebook and X @BridgerTetonNF.