Single Publication

Fire Location: 11 miles west of Wapiti, WY
Size: 1,878 acres
Containment: 10%
Personnel: 145
Start Date: 7/19/24
Cause: Lightning
Incident Commander (IC): Ron Steffens, Wyoming Type 3 Team

Summary  
Cooler and potential wet weather is predicted, giving firefighters the opportunity to make progress on the fire.  They will use this weather window to secure lines and spots fires, as well as scout for direct line opportunities or natural barriers to use for containing fire spread where possible.   

Drivers along Highway 14 should maintain a safe speed in the fire area. The presence of a USFS law enforcement officer in the corridor is helping to manage traffic. 

Please do not enter closed campgrounds and closed trail areas so firefighters may work safely. This also provides for public safety. 

Closures 
Elk Fork Campground is closed indefinitely.  Wapiti Campground, and Clearwater Campground are closed until fire conditions allow otherwise. These closures provide public safety and increased access for fire resources. A road and trail closure are in effect at NFS Road #424, Elk Fork Road and NFS Trail # 760, Elk Fork Trail.  

Click here to view the closure order (#021404-24-03). A temporary flight restriction is in effect until August 19, 2024 

Weather | Anticipated Fire Behavior 
In the coming days, cooler temperatures are foreseeable, though gusty winds with thunderstorm outflows could allow growth of the fire, particularly into the south end of the Elk Fork drainage. Air quality index is forecasted to remain GOOD for the next 24 hours. 

Important Information 
Managing the risk to responders and ensuring public safety remain the highest priorities for the incident management team. The Clearwater fire has not been the only fire contributing to the smoke in the air.  Smoke from fires in Canada as well as Idaho and the Northwest have been a steady influence across the area for many days. Use the Air Now link to check current conditions and plan your outdoor activities when air quality is at a tolerable level.  

The Shoshone National Forest implemented Stage 1 fire restrictions due to very dry conditions of fuels and continued hot, dry weather.  Click here to view a copy of Stage 1 Fire Restrictions order (#02-14-04-24-04).  

Fire History 
The Clearwater Fire started on Friday, July 19th, 2024, in the vicinity of the Elk Fork drainage.  The location of the fire is in very steep and remote terrain that makes direct attack on the fire very difficult for firefighter access and safety. The fire is burning on steep slopes in conifer forest, brush, and dead and down logs.  The fire was caused from lightning.