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Elkhorn Fire

Unit Information

North Dakota 
Bismarck, 
58503 
North Dakota 
Bismarck, 
58503 

Incident Contacts

  • Fire Information
    Email:
    steven.best@usda.gov
    Phone:
    701-989-7283
    Hours:
    8:00 am - 4:30 PM

Elkhorn Fire Update - 10-06-2024

Elkhorn Fire
Publication Type: News - 10/06/2024 - 15:13

Elkhorn Fire Update 10/6/2024:

The Elkhorn Fire started on October 5, 2024, approximately 8 miles south and 5 miles east of Watford City, ND. The fire rapidly spread in a south easterly direction driven by strong northwest winds.  Local, state, and federal, resources responded to the incident. Because of the strong winds and rugged badlands terrain, suppression efforts were difficult. The fire has burned approximately 10,000 acres in a mix of private, state, and federal land. 

Today’s weather conditions will be more conducive to firefighting activities. On the east side of the fire, near the Little Missouri River, the North Dakota National Guard is utilizing a helicopter to perform water drops to help contain the fire. Local, state, and federal resources are working together performing suppression activities around the perimeter of the fire.  Additionally, two hand crews are enroute to the incident. 

Another update will be provided this evening.