Gilead Fire Update 9_23_2012
Incident: Gilead Wildfire
Released: 9/23/2012
Management Objectives: Minimize risk to firefighters and air resources by limiting exposure to high-risk environment; provide for public safety; minimize risk to values including structures, recreation, and livestock; build and improve relationships with cooperators and the local community; keep the public informed of the fire situation, strategies, and management actions; and minimize fire spread.
Closures: An emergency closure, surrounding the fire perimeter is in effect on the Bighorn National Forest. See www.fs.usda.gov/bighorn/, www.inciweb.org/incident/3220, or any district office for further information.
Yesterday's events/actions: Handline was constructed from around the southern and western flanks of the fire north toward Middle Rock Creek. Burnout operations were conducted to secure the line along the southern and eastern flanks of the fire. An engine was staged in the area of Paradise Guest Ranch and other residential cabins. The western flank of the fire was scouted for the next helispot location.
Today's planned events/actions: The southeastern flank of the fire will be patrolled, with additional handline constructed along the southwest finger. Additional line will be secured on the western flank all the way to Middle Rock Creek. Crews will continue burning out on the southwestern edge of the fire. An engine will remain near Paradise Guest Ranch and other residential cabins.
Weather outlook: Today's forecast calls for 5-10 mph winds from the east. Humidity will be at 17-21%, with temperatures ranging from 66-72 degrees. Smoke may be visible on the fire today due to burn out operations.
Current resources: Two helicopters; the Roosevelt, Pike, Alpine, and San Juan Hotshots; one engine; and the Incident Management Team. The cost to date is $3 million.
Fire danger: Extreme - conditions are very dry. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect on the Bighorn NF. See www.fs.usda.gov/bighorn/ for further information.
Firefighter injuries: None; 39,748 hours of work with no injuries.
