MONDAY MORNING UPDATE:
The Qury Fire burning near Custer State Park has remained at 7,500 acres burned while containment is at 22%. Additional personnel have arrived with 340 working the blaze.
Smoke is expected to linger as firing operations continue to take advantage of the favorable weather conditions.
Road closures include SD-87 from Junction US 385 to Junction US 16A West
And US-16A from Junction US 16 West-Custer to Junction South Dakota 36
Smoke may affect visibility in the area.
SUNDAY EVENING UPDATE:
Fire crews strengthened containment lines Sunday as work continued on the Qury Fire burning near Custer State Park.
Firefighters made progress along the western and northern edges of the fire, improving and securing fire lines around structures. Light precipitation slowed some operations in the morning, but crews were still able to reinforce containment.
On the southern side, firefighters continued to improve lines, while teams working inside Custer State Park used handlines, natural terrain and roads to build containment on the eastern flank.
Due to limited availability of interagency aircraft, managers were unable to conduct an infrared mapping flight. A Type 3 helicopter completed a perimeter flight in the afternoon, giving crews a more accurate picture of the fire when combined with ground assessments.
Smoke is expected to linger as containment work continues. Forecasters call for a high near 36 degrees today with 10 to 15 mph winds, followed by a warming and drying trend beginning Tuesday, bringing warmer temperatures, wind and lower humidity.
Several road closures remain in place, including Lower French Creek Road from Highway 16A to Highway 87, along with Hazelrodt, Glen Erin, Flynn Creek and Herbert Draw. Highway 87 is closed from 16A to the north boundary of Wind Cave National Park, though the park remains open.
Repopulation efforts are underway for residents along Hazelrodt Road and portions of Lower French Creek Road between Highway 16A and Whitetail Road. Officials will reevaluate residential access daily. Updated evacuation and closure information is available through the Custer County Sheriff’s Office.
A temporary flight restriction remains in effect over the fire area. 290 personnel are working the blaze which has burned 7,500 acres, is 22% contained and damaged approximately 10 properties including homes.
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