BLM urges caution as Windmill Fire impacts Interstate 80 near Evanston
by Bureau of Land Management
September 20, 2010
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), High Desert District in Rock Springs urges motorists to beware of fire crews and be prepared for smoke along Interstate-80 due to the Windmill Fire burning near Evanston, Wyoming.
The 5,000 to 6,000 acre blaze started Friday, Sept. 17, five miles east of Evanston and is burning mainly grass, sage and piņon juniper trees. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The blaze is 50 percent contained and full containment is expected Wednesday, Sept. 22. No structures are threatened, and no damage has been sustained by the nearby wind towers. Wyoming Highway Patrol closed portions of Interstate-80 on Sunday, Sept. 19, due to smoke and low visibility. BLM Incident Commander Dustin Widmer is encouraging travelers to watch out for fire crews working close to the roadway and to obey any temporary closures caused by the blaze.
Approximately 60 firefighters and air crews from the BLM, U.S. Forest Service, Wyoming Fire Service, State of Wyoming, and Uinta County are battling the blaze. Extremely dry conditions and 45 mile per hour winds are in the forecast for today. For more information contact High Desert District Fire Management Officer Frank Keeler at (307) 352-0282.
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