Klondike and Taylor Creek Backfire Smoke Concerns Public

The 55,248 acre Klondike Fire has pushed south, and is now established on the south side of the Illinois River. Flames were very visible from Highway 199 as fire crews recently burned out areas around structures and widened fire containment lines.

Thursday fire crews tried to reduce the spread of the Klondike Fire southward and worked on additional contingency lines to the south. Mop up and repair continues along the controlled perimeters.

Fire officials expect higher temperatures in the next few days and a wind shift from the northeast to the northwest to push the fire to the southwest, with spotting and mid-slope runs possible. The fire continues to consume fuels between the Klondike Fire and Taylor Creek Fire. Firefighters continue to strengthen the margin between the Klondike Fire and the communities of Selma, Wonder and Wilderville to the east.

Strategic Backfire containment lines west of Selma.

Highly traveled areas near the fires will continue to present safety concerns for firefighting crews along area roads. Conditions continue to improve around Galice with increased business and recreational activity. Drivers will continue to see firefighters along the road requiring drivers to use extreme caution. Expect increased fire equipment traffic along Hwy 199 due to change of the fire camp location.

Bear Camp and Peavine Roads remain closed to traffic due to firefighter activity. Fire lines have been constructed and maintained and crews are mopping up some areas of the Taylor Creek Fire. The continued risk of trees and other debris falling on roads continues.

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