Wildfire near White Sulphur Springs ravages Black Canyon

The Black Canyon fire was reported Saturday, burning in dense forest in private and state lands, the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation said. Its cause has not been determined.

There are 189 personnel, five engines, five helicopters and seven hand crews assigned, officials said.

The DNRC County Assist Team assumed command of the fire Sunday. Fire managers are using a full suppression strategy and the primary goal is to keep the fire west of the Smith River, prep and protect structures and stop the fire’s spread by building direct and indirect containment lines, the DNRC said.

The fire area received .75 inches of rain Saturday evening, helping to slow fire activity, state officials said. However, the northern edge of the fire has been the most active, due to receiving less precipitation, resulting in torching and spotting.

The fire manager assessed the fire on the ground and from a helicopter reconnaissance flight Sunday. Five helicopters provided air support by dropping water on the fire’s edge to slow its spread, allowing for fire crews to safely engage and create direct hand lines. Helicopters on Monday will continue water drops on the northern end. Hand crews and heavy equipment operators will work on fire line construction on Black Canyon Lane.

The DNRC said conditions were expected to be mostly sunny with temperatures in the low 80s on Monday and variable southeast winds up to 5 mph shifting to the northwest in the evening. They expect isolated thunderstorms to move through the area, bringing strong winds, light precipitation and possible lightning in the next 24 hours.

Officials said a temporary flight restriction is in effect within 7 miles of the fire area. The said to be mindful of heavy traffic including fire personnel and equipment in the area.