CURRENT STATUS:
Due to strong winds associated with the passage of a cold front, the fire
doubled in size over the past 24 hours according to overnight aerial
mapping. The infrared mapping shows the fire at 2,214 acres, with the
majority of the fire's expansion north, toward the southern end of Cliff
Lake. The fire crossed the handline previously established on the
southwest side of Cliff Lake. Crews are now scouting areas to put in
new line north of the fire.
As a precautionary safety measure, fire managers worked with Madison
County Sheriff's Office to move people out of the Wade Lake, Hilltop,
and Cliff Point campgrounds due to increased fire behavior and
northerly fire progression. These campgrounds are now closed, per the
Forest's expanded closure. Engines were on-scene at various structures
throughout the night.
The handline on the east side of Cliff Lake is now complete and
effectively holding the fire from moving further north in that area.
Previous retardant drops, northeast of Hidden Lake, are effectively
preventing the fire from spreading eastward currently. Heavy
equipment is continuing to strengthen the fireline along Jackpine
Gulch Road northwest of the fire for use in future burn operations. All
resources will work to strengthen lines and fuel breaks, connecting to
natural barriers and existing roads.
WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR:
Today's forecast calls for temperatures in the low 90s and relative
humidity at 10-15%. Winds are forecast to be 6-11 mph with gusts up
to 20 mph from the north/northwest. There is a chance for
thunderstorms this afternoon and evening; little to no precipitation is
expected.
Overnight infrared mapping indicated numerous spot fires and active
fire intensity on the northern portion of the fire. Fire activity is
forecast to be most active in the northeast area of the fire today. Direct
winds and slope alignment could produce short crown runs and
spotting up to 1/2 mile.
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