Fifteen days after it started, the Valley Fire is still active in very steep, rugged terrain, difficult and dangerous for firefighters. Fire activity has been minimal over the last week, but smoke may increase as hotter and drier weather conditions persist. Firefighters will continue to patrol and extinguish hot spots and aircraft may be used to reinforce containment lines.
Expect to see smoke from the fire in the upcoming days, possibly weeks, as heavy fuels continue to burn within the fire interior. Smoke may be visible to residents of Forest Falls, other local communities and to motorists along Highway 38.
The National Weather Service forecasts seasonally warm weather through the weekend and warns of excessive heat next week. Should thunderstorms occur over the fire area, an increased risk of flooding and debris flows may result in the closure of Highway 38, Valley of the Falls Drive and any other impacted roads. Travelers are urged to use caution, be alert and be patient.
The Valley Fire began during record hot temperatures on July 6, causing road closures and evacuation orders in the Forest Falls area.
Currently the fire remains 1,348 acres with 29% containment. For more information, please visit InciWeb and search for Valley Fire and follow the forest on Facebook or Twitter.