Willow Creek Fire Updates: Holding at 3,820 Acres; Evacuations Still in Effect

Willow Creek Fire Update: August 25, 2025

The Willow Creek Fire continues to challenge crews in Lincoln County, holding at 3,820 acres with 0% containment as of Monday afternoon. More resources have arrived on scene, including smokejumpers, hand crews, engines, a dozer, and multiple helicopters. Total assigned personnel has grown to 140.

Highway 89 Status

Highway 89 is open in both directions, but fire managers caution drivers to stay alert for heavy fire traffic and drifting smoke. Motorists are asked not to pull over to watch firefighting operations, which could obstruct the road and create safety hazards for emergency personnel. WYDOT notes that while the goal is to keep the highway open, temporary closures may occur if fire activity threatens traveler or firefighter safety.

For live updates, visit Wyoming 511 or the WYDOT app.

Evacuations

GO (Evacuation Order):
All residences from milepost 75 south (near Gomm’s Pond Lane) to Salt Pass.
• A shelter has been established at the National Guard Readiness Center in Afton, near the high school.
SET (Be Prepared):
Residents west of Highway 89 from Reeves-Schwab Lane south to Gomm’s Pond should be prepared for evacuation if conditions worsen.

Lincoln County uses the READY, SET, GO! method for wildfire evacuations. Residents are encouraged to review the Wildland Fire Action Guide. Emergency notifications are distributed through the CodeRED system, which delivers alerts via call, text, or email. Sign up here.

Fire Operations

Fire activity remained strong Sunday evening, with crews conducting firing operations to keep the blaze west of Highway 89. Today’s objectives are:

Holding the fire west of the highway
Minimizing impacts to private property
Identifying opportunities for direct fireline engagement
Conducting structure assessments and protections

Work around a WyoLink communications site has been completed, ensuring continued emergency communications in the region.

Weather Outlook

Isolated showers and thunderstorms are possible today, though chances of wetting rain remain just 10%. Winds should be light to moderate, except in storm cells where erratic gusts may develop. Relative humidity will stay above critical thresholds, and smoke dispersal should be good to excellent this afternoon. Rain chances improve later in the week, potentially helping firefighting efforts.

Incident Management Transition

On Sunday night, Nevada Team 2 (Type 3 Incident Management Team) officially assumed command of the Willow Creek Fire. This transition allows local crews to focus on other area fires and remain ready for new ignitions.