BUFFALO, Wyo. — As the House Draw Fire continues to grow and consume more wildland across Johnson County, the Johnson County Fire Department has compiled information to be shared with the public regarding the status of containment efforts.
As of Thursday, Aug. 22, the House Draw Fire is reportedly affecting 163,466 acres and is 0% contained, according to the department. The fire, which has spread to engulf a large area between Clearmont to the north, Buffalo to the west, Kaycee to the south and Gillette to the east, was determined to be caused by lightning.
No injuries have been reported. However, 60 structures are reportedly threatened, including oil and gas infrastructure, water tanks and miles of fence. Sage grouse and mule deer habitat areas and livestock are also threatened. No residences have currently been lost to the fire.
According to the county fire department, the threatened area primarily consists of sagebrush and grasslands and is exhibiting “extreme behavior.” Flight restrictions for drones and aircraft have also been put into place.
Seventy firefighters across six different agencies are currently employed at the site of the fire to undergo containment efforts. The agencies include State Forestry, the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service, alongside county and local departments in Johnson County.
Johnson County Fire reports that 16 engines, 13 dozers, two type-two helicopters and one large air tanker are on site for extinguishment endeavors.
Multiple areas within Johnson County are also facing evacuation orders and road closures. County residents living north of Interstate 90 from Tipperary Road to the northern and eastern county lines must evacuate. Additionally, evacuation orders extend south of the interstate to Cook Road in Johnson County.
I-90 itself remains closed, along with WY 59 north of Gillette. County roads, including Cook Road, Tipperary Road, Irigary Road, Nine Mile Road and Sussex Cutoff, are open to local traffic only.
For more information on the House Draw Fire and the current efforts of the Johnson County Fire Department and partner agencies, contact the Johnson County Fire public information officer or emergency management office.
