The Shoshone Fire has grown to 7,934 acres in Churchill County. Firefighters face steep, rugged terrain that makes fighting the blaze difficult. The fire burns about 58 miles northeast of Fallon. Lightning caused the fire, according to the Bureau of Land Management Nevada.
The fire spreads through short grass, brush, timber, and juniper. Firefighters report both rapid fire spread and slower surface fire. High temperatures, low humidity, and winds of 15 to 25 mph fuel the fire’s growth. Dry live and dead fuels add to the challenge.
The fire moves south and east, following the land and available vegetation. Fire retardant slows the fire in some areas, but heavy juniper can burn through those lines.
The team uses a full suppression strategy. Steep, inaccessible terrain limits where firefighters can safely work. Additional crews will join as conditions improve and allow for effective action.
Firefighters see the left flank as the best place to set an anchor point and start securing the fire. This area has favorable fuels and topography.
Currently, 115 personnel work on the fire, including crews, engines, bulldozers, and aircraft.
Check the fire’s InciWeb page for updates.
