New Wyoming Wildfire Near Yellowstone Scorches 2,000 Acres in Two Days

A new wildfire on the North Fork of the Shoshone River near the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park has burned over 2,000 acres since it was first reported Tuesday.

The June Fire, which is burning in the June Creek drainage some one and a half miles south of U.S. Highway 14/16/20, is expected to continue growing as weather remains hot and dry. Wind gusts are expected to increase Thursday afternoon.

Full suppression tactics are being implemented. A 20-person hotshot crew and a light helicopter are working the blaze; a Shoshone National Forest fire crew and engine are also on scene.

Additional hotshot crews and air resources were expected to arrive Thursday.

Ground crews are taking steps to protect buildings at the UXU Ranch, and have begun assessing the Blackwater Lodge. A number of guest lodges and private cabins are scattered along the river between the fire and the eastern boundary of Yellowstone National Park.

Due to the increased complexity of the fire, a Type Two Incident Management Team assume management of the fire at the end of Thursday's operational period.

Fire managers say the safety of firefighters and the public remains their top priority. As a precaution, the Elk Fork Trail is closed.

Visitors are reminded to be aware of firefighting personnel and equipment in the area. Fire information bulletins are located at key locations along the North Fork corridor.

An unauthorized drone flew over the fire on Wednesday, which forced fire managers to shut down critical aircraft operations. The public is reminded that flying drones over a wildfire is dangerous to firefighters, as well as illegal.