Update on the First Thunder Fire

RAPID CITY, S.D.(KBHB) – Suppression efforts are going well on the lines of the First Thunder Fire – that Wednesday morning from fire officials.

According to the latest update, firefighters got a good handle on the wildfire last night, currently at 157 acres. That is down from last night’s estimate of 170 acres. There is still no containment, but fire officials are hoping that will change today.

Fire official Wayne Yander says weather conditions are favorable today and officials say they are mopping up a large portion on the west side and are hoping to get everything contained & under control today.

One of the main areas of concern for fire crews was on the north flank, or the Dark Canyon area.

Fire officials say smoke will be visible from the fire for several days yet.

Meanwhile the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office cautions people to stay out of the fire idea, and to please not fly drones over the fire. Drones hamper air support and can ground tankers and helicopters fighting the fire.

Jason Mitchell of the Pennington County Sheriff’s office says the pre-evacuation notices remain out of abundance of caution.

Several roads in the area of the fire also remained closed. They include Taylor Ranch, Norsemen, Victoria Lake and Falling Rock. The Buzzard’s Roose trailhead also remains closed.