SPEARFISH, S.D. — Firefighters continued battling the Lookout Fire near Spearfish on Tuesday, with the blaze holding at approximately 444 acres and remaining 0% contained as of the latest evening update.
While crews have not yet established containment, they stopped the fire’s forward progress on the north side. Fire resources are now concentrating efforts on the fire’s flanks and southern perimeter to prevent further spread.
Officials have determined the fire was caused by reignited hay bales in a roadside ditch. A hay bale fire had been reported in the area over the weekend, and investigators believe the bales rekindled and sparked the wildfire.
Evacuation orders for residents near Lookout Mountain, Kirwin Road, Lookout Vista Road, and surrounding areas were lifted Tuesday evening. As of 7 p.m., residents were allowed to return to their homes.
However, the affected area remains closed to non-residents. Officials have established checkpoints, and residents returning to the area must provide identification showing proof of residency.
A Temporary Flight Restriction remains in effect over the fire area. Fire officials are reminding the public that unauthorized drones or aircraft are prohibited, noting that such activity can ground firefighting aircraft and hinder suppression efforts.
Fire crews are expected to remain on scene for several more days as they work toward containment. Weather conditions continue to challenge firefighting efforts, with temperatures in the upper 80s, humidity levels below 15%, and continued dry conditions increasing wildfire danger across the area. Forecasters expect even drier weather heading into Thursday.
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