Fire Danger Has Increased to Very High - Two Wildfires Continue to Grow Near Grand Teton

Teton Interagency fire managers have announced today that the fire danger rating has increased to Very High for the Bridger-Teton National Forest, Grand Teton National Park and Teton Interagency Dispatch Area.

With exceptionally dry conditions, local residents and visitors alike should practice heightened fire safety at all times. Indeed, two wildfires continue to grow near Grand Teton National Park:

* The Cliff Creek Fire was discovered on the Bridger-Teton National Forest at 2:30pm on Sunday, July 17th. It was reported approximately 5 miles north of the town of Bondurant. The lightning ignited fire has now burned more than 10,000 acres, and has closed Highway 191 between Bondurant and Hoback Junction until further notice. For more information on this fire, please click here.

* The Lava Mountain Fire is burning northwest of Dubois on the Wind River Ranger District of the Shoshone National Forest. This fire was also caused by lighting on July 10th, and is currently active in thick timber. This fire has burned just over one thousand acres. For more information on this fire, please click here.

When determining fire danger ratings, fire officials evaluate several factors such as: the moisture content of grasses, shrubs and trees; projected weather conditions (including temperatures and possible wind events); the ability of fire to spread after ignition; and the availability of fire-fighting resources. A fire danger rating of ‘Very High’ means that fires can start easily, spread quickly and burn intensely.

Recent hot temperatures, low humidity and windy conditions have combined to increase the potential for intense fire activity across the Teton Interagency fire area.

The smallest spark has the potential to cause significant damage, always crush smokes dead out; never leave a campfire unattended; ensure that your vehicle has a properly installed spark arrester that is operational; and, stop and park only in areas clear of vegetation.

Campers are reminded that unattended or abandoned campfires can easily escalate into wildfires; therefore, it is important that all campfires are completely extinguished and cold to the touch before leaving a site. Campers and day users should have a shovel on hand and a water bucket ready for use. All campfires must be completely extinguished and cold to the touch before leaving a site.

All recreationalists should be mindful that they could be held liable for suppression costs if their actions contribute to starting a wildfire.

To report a fire or smoke in Bridger-Teton National Forest or Grand Teton National Park, call the Teton Interagency Fire Dispatch Center at 307.739.3630. For more fire information, please visit www.tetonfires.com.



Jeff
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