Spot Fire Creates Large Smoke Plume Visible From Jackson
Incident: Horsethief Canyon Wildfire
Released: 9/9/2012
A large smoke plume is currently visible from the Town of Jackson, attributed to a 100-acre spot fire located in Wilson Canyon. Spot fires are fire starts outside the main body of the fire and caused by blowing debris or embers. The Incident command team has both aerial and ground resources working on the spot fire, in addition to the main body of the fire.
Smoke often makes the fire appear closer than it is. It can be difficult to gauge a fire's distance especially when there are changes in topography between the viewer and the head of the fire. Large plumes often develop around late afternoon as fire activity peaks due to rising temperatures, lower humidity, and increased winds.
The fire team continues to update the fire's relationship to Snow King, Cache Creek and other areas. Initial reports from air operations estimate the spot fire is roughly 1 to 1.5 miles south of Snow King. Fire officials are scheduled to fly the fire at 4:00 p.m. to confirm the estimate. The Town of Jackson is not considered to be in immediate danger. Management of the fire is still in alignment with the incident objectives and strategies, with an emphasis on protection of Snow King, the communication towers, and the Town of Jackson.
