SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — As the First Thunder Fire grows to 170 acres in western South Dakota, local residents received evacuation warnings Tuesday.
In a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, Mayor Jason Salamun stated this is a serious fire and it is growing. There is no reason to panic but people need to be prepared for possible evacuations.
Salamun stated people in the area should put a plan together now, know where to go and what you are going to do with your pets.
Central States Fair is taking livestock and the Black Hills Animal Hospital is helping out with smaller animals.
People should get their most important things together such as birth certificates, social security cards, personal daily needs, prescriptions and priceless photographs. Be ready to go should the evacuation take place.
The Mayor said we need to pray for the best but plan and not be caught by surprise.
Salamun stated the fire is being fought by many crews on the ground and in air ’round the clock’ and the fire is close to many structures. The fire, which started Monday, is 0% contained.
Taylor Ranch, Norseman, Victoria Lake, and Falling Rock roads are currently closed. Buzzard’s Roost Trail is also closed.
There are many variables with the weather and the wind could change.
“We know there are just people working through bitter heat. That’s the challenge with this. From what I’m told it’s the dry air combined with the high heat that really brings little relief,” said Mayor Salamun. Temperatures are near 100 degrees in the area with winds 15-25 mph, which fan the flames. Afternoon and evening dry thunderstorms are possible.
According to the Black Hills National Forest press release on Tuesday, the fire is burning grass and timber in steep, rugged and rocky terrain.
He also stated people should stay away from the fire areas and let the professionals do their work on the frontlines.
For more information, Great Plains Fire Information blog at http://gpfireinfo.blogspot.com. Public safety information can be found at www.facebook.com/PennCoSheriff
