View of the Kinky Creek Fire from Red Bluff. Photo by Todd Stiles, FS-Jackson District Ranger.

Cool, wet weather continues to moderate fire activity on the Kinky Creek Fire. The lightning-caused fire is currently estimated at 883 acres and remains 0% contained. The reduction in acreage is the result of more accurate mapping and does not reflect a decrease in fire activity. Approximately 160 personnel are assigned to the incident.

The Kinky Creek Fire is located west of Darwin Ranch, near Upper Gros Ventre Falls in the Gros Ventre Wilderness on the Jackson Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The fire is burning in heavy timber on steep, rugged terrain.

Rainfall was received across the fire area yesterday, resulting in a moderation of fire behavior. Fire managers observed limited fire movement as cool temperatures, high humidity, and precipitation persisted throughout the operational period.

As firefighter safety remains the highest priority, crews assigned to the fire were called back to spike camp as weather conditions deteriorated and became increasingly hazardous. Forecasts indicate continued below freezing temperatures with the potential for freezing rain and snow across the fire area in the coming days.

Prior to the weather event, firefighters continued to safely engage the fire and improve access along portions of the fire perimeter. Fire managers will continue assessing operational opportunities as weather allows.

The current weather pattern is expected to continue moderating fire behavior over the next several days. While the precipitation is beneficial to suppression efforts, steep terrain, saturated soils, reduced visibility, and the potential for freezing conditions create additional hazards for firefighters working in the backcountry environment.

Resources assigned to the fire include helicopters, smokejumpers, hand crews, engines, overhead personnel, and support staff.

The public is asked to avoid Kinky Creek Road; Kinky Creek and Clear Creek trails; and the Brewster, Lunch, and Chateau Lake areas so firefighters can work safely and efficiently. A closure order remains in effect for portions of the fire area.

Teton County Emergency Management continues to advise that Darwin Ranch and nearby private lands remain in SET status due to the Kinky Creek Fire. Residents and visitors should review evacuation plans, gather essential items, and remain prepared should protective actions become necessary.