Two large fires continue to burn in the state due to unusually dry and warm temperatures in the West. The Elk Fire is at nearly 90,000 acres burned — and 27% contained — in the Bighorn Mountains and the Pack Trail Fire at nearly 80,000 in the Bridger-Teton National Forest.

While there is some colder weather coming to the region later in the week, two area national forests are still advising people to be cautious when recreating in the national forests due to the high fire danger and dry conditions.

The Shoshone and Bridger-Teton national forests remind outdoor enthusiasts to be cautious while hunting and recreating this fall in a news release.

Both the Shoshone and Bridger-Teton forests are in “Very High” fire danger. This means fires can start easily from most causes and may spread rapidly. Small fires can quickly become large fires and exhibit extreme fire behavior, such as long-distance spotting, especially with the windy conditions we have had recently.

The National Multi-Agency Coordination Group has raised the national preparedness level to 5, which is the highest preparedness level. This means firefighting resources are currently extremely scarce.

According to the national forests, a highly unusual weather pattern is forecast for the next two weeks in Wyoming, with above normal temperatures and dry conditions across the West. Temperatures will likely average 10 to 20 degrees above normal with very low relative humidity, although later this week temperatures look to fall much lower. According to the National Weather Service in Riverton, the Powell area could see first snowfalls Thursday night and the high Friday is forecasted to be 49 degrees.

While most of Eastern Wyoming remains under fire restrictions, many areas in Western Wyoming are not. People are urged to be aware of local public safety area closures, take precautions before venturing out and be careful with anything that could start a fire.

“With a little extra effort and caution, we can all ensure that human-caused fires are not contributing to the challenging situation we find ourselves in,” said Fred Tucker, Shoshone National Forest fire management officer. “Just like everyone else, we’re all hoping for a significant rain or snow event that will bring the 2024 fire season to a close.”

— By Zac Taylor