SPEARFISH, S.D. – Fire crews continue to make progress on the Lookout Fire northeast of Spearfish, with officials reporting the blaze is now 54 percent contained.
Authorities say the fire was human-caused and started when hay bales burned in a roadside ditch. The wildfire has scorched 444 acres, but firefighters have stopped its advance on the north side and are continuing to strengthen containment lines around the perimeter.
Crews are working to prepare for a forecasted wind event expected Friday, when gusts could reach 35 miles per hour and create critical fire weather conditions.
Evacuation orders in the Lookout Mountain area have been lifted, allowing residents to return home, and previously closed local roads reopened Wednesday evening. Fire officials say all structures threatened by the fire remain standing.
One lane of northbound Interstate 90 between mile markers 10 and 12 remains closed, and drivers are urged to watch for smoke in the area.
Firefighters expect visible smoke to continue for some time as containment and suppression efforts move forward.
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