Good Progress Made on the Longhorn Complex Fire
New fire information phone lines were established today. The public is encouraged to please call
605-747-2046 or 605-747-2707.
The erratic winds that were predicted in the fire area today did not materialize. Because of this firefighters made good progress on all three fires today. Crews, helicopters, and air tankers focused their efforts on the South Crazy Horse Fire working hard to stop its spread. It is now 425 acres, and is located east of BIA Road 5 and 1.5 miles north of the Spring Creek Community.
The Beads Creek fire and the Iron Shell Fire have now combined together for a total size of 36,887 acres. Today handcrews and engines continued to construct and improve fire line, provide structure protection, patrol, mop up and watch for spot fires across completed fire line, while being assisted by helicopters and airtankers making water and retardant drops. The fire lines on the Longhorn fire (1664 acres) are holding and mop up continues. There are now 597 personnel assigned to the fire.
These three lightning caused fires in the Longhorn complex have now burned 38,976 acres, and are 25% contained.
The evacuation notice issued at midnight last night for the residents of the Upper Cut Meat area was lifted this afternoon, allowing residents to return home. Spring Creek Community residents remain evacuated from their homes. The Evacuation Center at the St. Francis Indian School Gymnasium remains open.
Four outbuildings were destroyed in the Iron Shell fire on Sunday night when the fire doubled in size in the strong erratic winds. No residential structures have been lost.
Tonight’s weather forecast predicts 30% chance of dry thunderstorms. Gusty, erratic winds are expected as a warm front moves through the area that could possibly effect fire behavior tonight. Smoke continues to be heavy in areas near the fires.
Four Type 1 helicopters (including two South Dakota National Guard Blackhawk helicopters), Four Type 2 and one Type 3 helicopters are assigned to the fire. Air tankers based out of Rapid City provided retardant drops today.
Currently, BIA 30 and BIA5 roads are closed into Spring Creek Community.
Sicangu News 
Palamaya. Thanks for the update from your end. The Niorbara fires on the Nebraska side of the boarder had me worried about Rosebud… unaware that wildfires were already perplexing the Sicangu Rez. Wachaykiyapi.