Lightning Declared Cause of Elk Fire as Efforts to Mitigate Spread Intensify

SHERIDAN COUNTY — The Bighorn National Forest and Rocky Mountain Area Complex Incident Management Team 3 have confirmed that the Elk Fire, which has already consumed 74,685 acres, originated from a lightning strike. The cause was officially determined by a certified fire investigator deployed to the scene by helicopter, as reported on the BNF Facebook page. Public Information Officer Sara Evans Kirol corroborated this information.

Efforts to manage the fire have involved over 500 personnel, with substantial resources including air support. Bighorn National Forest Supervisor Andrew Johnson stated, “We’ve been on the defense from the start… But now, we’re looking at offensive strategies.” Johnson emphasized the challenging weather conditions, blaming high winds and low humidity for the rapid growth of the fire, which expanded by 25,000 acres overnight.

Evacuation advisories are in place for various areas within Sheridan County. The evacuation status has been divided into “Go,” “Set,” and “Ready” categories, with specific locales listed under each. Residents along Pass Creek Road and Twin Creek Road, and parts of Tongue River Canyon, face imminent evacuation orders.

Sheridan County School District 1 has adjusted its operations due to the fire’s proximity, moving classes online for schools on the Tongue River side. Slack Elementary School remains closed, reflecting broader concerns about air quality surrounding the Elk Fire. Air quality is being monitored, and decisions regarding vulnerable activities are communicated by school administrators.

The Elk Fire has not only threatened residential structures but also infrastructure such as the Big Goose Water Treatment facility, deemed a critical point by fire crews as they engage in strategic planning to protect this and other vital areas. Resource allocation and firefighting strategies continue to adapt to weather forecasts and terrain conditions.

Community meetings and public advisories are ongoing, with updates being regularly posted on the Bighorn National Forest’s social media accounts. The Elk Fire, according to the latest reports, remains only 10% contained. With shifts in weather expected, including a rise in temperature and persistent low humidity, firefighters brace for continued flame intensity.

The Wyoming National Guard, authorized by Governor Mark Gordon, stands ready to assist with medevac resources as required by the ongoing efforts to suppress the fire. Local agencies and federal teams are collaboratively handling the complex incident response. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels and take precautionary measures as dictated by authorities.