Bear Creek Fire At 7563 Acres With 20% Containment

Current as of 8/20/2020, 6:50:37 AM

Total Personnel 481

Size 7,563 Acres,

Percent of Perimeter Contained 20%

A Red Flag Warning will be in effect today (from 12 p.m. until 12 a.m.) for unstable conditions, high winds, and low humidity. Winds could gust to 30 mph, with temperatures in the high 70s to low 80s. The relative humidity is expected to be in the low teens, potentially dipping into the single digits. Early morning fire behavior is expected to be slow due to cloud cover and the presence of drift smoke from the new fires in California; activity is expected to increase by the afternoon hours. Fire activity is expected in the Bear Creek drainage, where the winds align with the topography. Winds over the fire area are highly variable due to topographic features and the proximity to the Continental Divide. The fire will likely see interior activity, given winds associated with thunderstorms. Dry and windy conditions are forecast through early next week.

Crews will work to improve the line on the 1883 road on the southern flank, reinforcing and improving a more “direct” line closer to the active edge of the fire. To the north, crews will hold and secure line along the 6869 road and will potentially continue to burn westward if conditions are favorable. On the west side of the fire, crews will improve the fuel break to the Continental Divide. Crews will continue to work to connect line from the 515 road to the Continental Divide with support from heavy equipment, completing this section in one more day. Gusty winds will be a limiting factor for air operations.

Public and firefighter safety concerns are the top priority. Any public using the roads near the fire area should expect heavy fire traffic; please drive slowly for safety reasons. Hunters should check Inciweb and/or call for closure information and maps.  

The fire is burning in timber/heavy fuels. These fuels will continue to dry out with low relative humidity. The area provides poor access and there is a lack of water in the immediate area of the fire. Crews will work to protect cultural and natural resources and other values at risk.