Single Publication

Storage Fire

June 29, 2023

5:45 p.m.

Size: 600+ acres

Containment: 30%

Start Date: June 28, 2023

Cause: Under Investigation, Human Caused

Evacuations: There are Mandatory Evacuations in place for the communities of Gaines Bend, Sportsman's World, and Hell's Gate. Residents should leave these areas as quickly and orderly as they can

Fire crews have been working all day to contain the Storage Fire in extreme heat and windy conditions. The fire spotted over the containment lines constructed last night this afternoon and has showcased active to extreme fire behavior as it continued burning. The wind has been aligning with the fire and causing large and rapid growth at times causing firefighters to take a more defensive approach to attacking this fire. 

As the fire has been pushing to the north and west crews are now focusing on protecting structures in the communities that are currently under mandatory evacuations. There are airtankers coming into the area to conduct drops to slow the spread of the fire towards these homes. Members of the public should note that anything in the area such as drones, planes, or helicopters will cause all air operations to cease until those items have left the area, potentially hampering firefighting operations. Crews will be working through the night again to get a handle on this fire and to protect the homes and properties along Lake Possum Kingdom.

At this time there have been no reported injuries or property damages.