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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 10-08-2024

Elkhorn Fire
Publication Type: News - 10/08/2024 - 14:22

Elkhorn Fire Update – October 8, 2024

Acres: 22,430

Containment: 50%

Key Message: 

  • The fire is currently 50% contained. Firefighters are actively working with aircraft, engines, and hand crews to establish additional containment lines. Progress has been slow due to the rugged terrain. Local, State, and Federal officials are working together to contain the fire. We appreciate the local support and coordination.
  • Over the next few days, you may see increased smoke from within the fire area. Increased smoke and smoke columns will be most noticeable in the afternoon and evening hours. If smoke is coming from within the fire area, it does not need to be reported. 
  • The cold front passage is expected on Thursday. This will bring strong winds, lower relative humidity, and unseasonably warm temperatures. Firefighters are doing everything they can to strengthen excising fire lines and be ready for the change in weather. 

Today’s Update (10/8/2024) 

  • Crews will continue working to increase the containment of the fire. This work may include burning out interior pockets of unburned fuels, which is meant to reduce the risk of fire spreading across containment lines or causing spot fires in the future.
  • The North Dakota National Guard will continue their efforts to drop water as needed.
  • If needed, a swing shift may be added to accomplish more work while weather conditions are conducive.
  • Yesterday, firefighters reinforced fire lines on the north and south flanks, continued mop-up along structures, and completed small burnouts to establish the fireline in the rugged areas of the fire. The McKenzie County Road Department utilized a road grader to strengthen existing containment lines. The North Dakota National Guard operated a Blackhawk to drop water in the areas of the Rough Creek drainage.