The Power Dam Road Fire continues to burn in Mellette County, with strong south winds pushing the fire northward. The fire is currently located in the river bottom of the White River on the south bank, posing a significant threat to surrounding areas. The fire as of Friday afternoon was estimated to be at 10,000 acres. The cause of the blaze is currently unknown and under investigation.
As a precautionary measure, the town of Okaton (roughly 60 miles southwest of Pierre) has been evacuated, along with several ranches located south of the White River earlier this afternoon. Local authorities are urging residents in areas north of the White River, including Belvidere, Murdo, and Okaton, along Interstate 90, to stay informed about the fire’s status and be prepared to follow evacuation instructions if necessary.
Much of southwestern South Dakota and the northern panhandle of Nebraska have seen exceptionally dry conditions, red flag warnings and other blazes throughout the past week and beyond. Just this week, firefighters have fought and contained the Coal Fire south of Edgemont, the Meadow Creek Fire northwest of Nemo, the Little Corral Fire southwest of Scenic, and the 343 fire south of Chadron. All of these fires have since been contained and none burned over 25 acres. 3 of the 4 were also caused by lightning.
Local, state, and federal firefighting units from across western South Dakota are actively working to combat the Power Dam Road Fire. In addition to firefighting crews, local farmers, ranchers, and citizens have mobilized to assist by shuttling water and creating fire lines using heavy equipment. Local transportation assets are also contributing to the containment efforts.
Friday afternoon, a Type 3 incident management team was also issued to aid in containing the Power Dam Road Fire.
Further updates will be provided as they become available.