New Evacuations Ordered as Elk Fire Grows in Wyoming’s Bighorn National Forest

Early Wednesday morning, new evacuation orders were issued for areas impacted by the Elk Fire in Wyoming’s Bighorn National Forest.

According to Sheridan County Emergency Management, residents in the areas of Pass Creek Road, Twin Creek Road west of Parkman, and Tongue River Canyon west of Dayton have been instructed to evacuate immediately due to rapidly changing fire conditions.

The Elk Fire, which began on Friday, has now grown to an estimated 32,000 acres. In addition to the evacuations, officials confirmed that six structures, including a barn and a cabin, were destroyed by the fire. A firefighter was also injured on Tuesday, though their injuries are not life-threatening.

The town of Parkman and surrounding areas have been placed under a pre-evacuation or “Ready” notice, urging residents to be prepared to leave if necessary. Emergency personnel have reached out directly to all affected residents. The town of Dayton remains outside the pre-evacuation zone at this time.

Several schools have been affected by the fire. Tongue River High School and Slack School are both closed as a precaution. A community meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday at Tongue River High School in Dayton to provide updates on the fire’s progression and response efforts.

For evacuees needing shelter, the Sheridan County Fairgrounds is open for those with livestock or campers. Arrangements are also available for those with pets. Additionally, local businesses like Country Pet Inn are offering free boarding for dogs. A large parking area near the baseball field in Ranchester is available for trailers and extra vehicles.

The Wyoming Department of Health has issued a health advisory, urging residents, particularly the elderly, young children, and those with respiratory conditions, to minimize outdoor activities due to the poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke.

Emergency teams are working to contain the fire as conditions continue to change rapidly. Residents are advised to stay updated through the Sheridan County Facebook page and official county website.

A new Incident Management Team has taken control of firefighting efforts, and all further updates will come from this team and Sheridan County Emergency Management.

Phone: 307-752-2174

Sheridan County Web Site: https://www.sheridancountywy.gov/

With input from Montana’s News Leader and Sheridan Media.