Fontenelle Fire at 12,000 acres
Infrared mapping shows growth
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
June 27, 2012
Big Piney, Wyo. – The Bridger-Teton National Forest has updated the acreage on the Fontenelle fire to 12,000 acres based on infrared mapping information.
When heavy smoke and inversion conditions prevent visual reconnaissance of a fire incident, infrared mapping is a tool that allows a comprehensive look at fire activity beneath the smoke. Heavy winds yesterday prevented the aircraft from being able to operate safely and effectively on the Fontenelle Fire yesterday. Infrared mapping also allows firefighters to pinpoint the most active perimeter and high potential areas of the fire.
The Forest has implemented an area closure as a result of the Fontenelle Fire in Lincoln and Sublette counties, Wyoming.
The Fontenelle Fire was reported on the Bridger-Teton National Forest around 4:30pm on Sunday, June 24. The fire is burning in both Sublette and Lincoln counties and has jumped into Snider Basin. The cause of this fire is under investigation. It is burning in heavy dead and fallen timber.
The fire is located approximately 33-miles northwest of the community of La Barge Wyoming. The fire danger rating for the area is "High".
The closure area includes the Middle Piney Road, part of Coal Creek Road and Indian Creek Road and the LaBarge Creek Road. The Forest is closed from the boundary to the TriBasin Divide. Recreationists can still utilize the Smith’s Fork Road, but will not be allowed to travel south in the LaBarge area.
The fire is being suppressed by 3 helicopters, 5 engines, and 2 crews of 20 firefighters each for a total of 92 personnel.
For additional information, visit www.inciweb.org
Click here for the Closure Notice and area map (PDF)
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