BUFFALO, W.Y. – Fire managers battling the Foot Creek Fire west of Buffalo are reminding pilots to stay out of restricted airspace after an unauthorized aircraft temporarily disrupted firefighting operations Sunday.
According to the Bighorn National Forest, an airplane entered a temporary flight restriction zone over the fire, forcing crews to ground drones being used to support firefighting efforts. Officials say unauthorized aircraft create serious safety concerns and can halt aerial operations until the area is cleared.
The Foot Creek Fire, located about 12 miles west of Buffalo, has grown to 683 acres and is currently 36 percent contained. Approximately 85 firefighters are assigned to the incident.
Crews continue working to protect nearby homes, strengthen containment lines, and conduct limited burnout operations. Residents in the area remain under a “SET” evacuation status, meaning they should be prepared to leave if conditions worsen.
Several roads near the fire remain closed, and fire officials say their top priorities continue to be protecting the public, firefighters, and nearby structures while fully suppressing the blaze.
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