Willow Creek Fire Creeps to 4,356 Acres, Crews Hold 12% Containment

The Willow Creek Fire burning south of Smoot in Lincoln County saw a slight bump in size over the weekend, but firefighters say steady rain has helped keep things in check—for now. As of August 27, Nevada Team 2 crews reported the fire at 4,356 acres with containment still holding at 12 percent.

Rain and scattered storms have given firefighters some breathing room, but it’s not all good news. Dense tree canopies in the area keep much of that moisture from reaching the ground, leaving dry needles and brush ready to burn. Showers are expected again Wednesday, but forecasters warn of a warming, drying trend later in the week that could ramp fire activity back up.

Firefighters continue to make progress on building and reinforcing fire lines while also protecting structures. Recent rainfall has allowed them to work directly along the fire’s edge—a big help in boosting containment. Crews have also set up sprinkler systems around the Allred Flat Campground and a key communication site. More hotshot crews are on the way to back up local divisions.

The updated acreage comes from an infrared flight late Sunday night, which gave crews a clearer read on the fire’s actual footprint. Despite the growth, officials say containment efforts remain steady.

Lincoln County is still at a “SET” evacuation level under the READY, SET, GO! system. That means residents should be packed and prepared to leave if the order comes down. The affected area stretches from mile post 75 south (near Gomm’s Pond Lane) to Salt Pass, and west of Highway 89 from Reeves-Schwab Lane south to Gomm’s Pond.

So far, Highway 89 remains open in both directions, but officials are asking drivers not to stop along the road to watch the fire—it creates a safety hazard for fire crews moving equipment.

A forest closure is still in place for parts of the Grey River and Kemmerer Ranger Districts, including all roads and trails within the defined closure boundary and the Allred Flat Campground. Smiths Fork Winter Trailhead is also closed.

Residents can sign up for Code Red alerts here

The original story by Vince Tropea for County 10.