Wildfire Threatens Dayton as Elk Fire Grows, Putting Local Families on Alert

The fire, which started on September 7 due to a lightning strike, burned through rugged forest land, causing widespread evacuations and disrupting local life.

Dayton’s school superintendent, Jeff Jones, highlighted the severity of the situation.

“We’ve got families in crisis. We have students who either need to help their families pack and prepare for evacuation, and many of our staff members are involved in firefighting efforts,” Jones said.

The fire’s proximity has led to the closure of local schools, adding further challenges for families trying to safeguard their homes and livelihoods.

The town has witnessed a strong sense of community as people come together to protect their businesses and properties. One such place is the Mountain Inn Bar, owned by Denise Townsend, who bought the bar with her late husband a decade ago. Townsend expressed the deep personal connection she has to her business.

“It’s actually the last retail place before you get up onto the mountain… It’s my life. It’s – it’s the only thing I have,” she said.