PHOTOS: A number of new wildfires started across the state on July 1, mostly due to lightning strikes. Grasses are dry and primed to spread fire quickly. Fire managers are asking for help to limit new starts by being careful ahead of the Fourth of July weekend and keeping water handy.
Northwest of Gillette, the Powder River Fire is now estimated at about 870 acres with about half of its perimeter contained, according to the wildfire tracking app Watch Duty. Clearmont Fire District assisted Johnson County to keep growth minimal overnight, despite strong winds. Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service helicopters and engines also assisted.
In Hot Springs County, several local fire departments are working to contain the Coyote Run Fire southwest of Thermopolis. Itโs about 170 acres. Meanwhile, the Hall Fire north of town is contained at just over 1,000 acres.
The governorโs office is asking for help preventing human-caused fires following last summerโs hectic season. The 2024 fire season was Wyomingโs second-worst on record, with more than 810,000 acres burned around the state. Nationwide, 90% of wildfires are caused by humans.
