The quick spread of the Moonshine Fire in southeastern Wyoming in dry, windy conditions in early September raised concern for people near the burn area west of Wheatland.
Here's what to know
The caption of a Sept. 9 Instagram post from a former wildland firefighter (@caughtthefirebug) read: "Moonshine Fire 500 acres 0% containment 2 miles NE of Government Peak Rd at Tunnel Rd, Wheatland Platte & Albany Counties Wy."
Facebook updates from Sybille Fire Zone said the blaze fell within the zone's broader coverage area and was first reported the evening of Sept. 7 before expanding rapidly.
Responders included crews and equipment from Albany County Volunteer Fire Department, Albany County, Platte County, the Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, and Wyoming State Forestry.
By Saturday, the fire had reached 26% containment.
More background
The Moonshine Fire is burning near Wheatland in a region where open land and shifting winds can allow fire conditions to change quickly.
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On Sept. 10, Sybille Fire Zone's Facebook update stated, "Wheatland Rural Electric Association has shut off power in the area until further notice to support firefighter safety and suppression operations. We appreciate all of the firefighters, dispatchers, pilots, law enforcement officers, utility crews, and supporting agencies working together on this incident. Stay safe out there."
What's being done?
According to Sybille Fire Zone, additional aircraft, hand crews, and a Type 3 Incident Management Team were also being considered for ordering.
Officials also urged people nearby to keep watching fire updates and to limit travel near the burn area to essential trips.
The post added: "Please be aware that conditions can change quickly, particularly with the current wind and dry conditions."
Where can I learn more?
Other wildfire stories offer a clearer picture of how fast the risks can spread beyond the burn area.
• In Colorado, experts worried storms would fan an 86,000-acre July wildfire while raising flash flooding concerns.
• Scientists say creating their own fire weather can worsen already volatile wildfire conditions.
• Health experts warn wildfire smoke air pollution can linger even after visible flames fade.
Wildfire danger can grow in different ways, from rapid fire spread to smoke and weather impacts that last long after the flames move through.
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