MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Fire crews continue working to contain the Qury Fire southeast of Custer, where the wildfire has now burned an estimated 8,434 acres and reached 27% containment, according to Tuesday updates from the Type 3 Interagency Incident Management Team and Custer County officials. About 350 personnel are assigned to the fire.
Authorities say structures on about 10 properties have been damaged or destroyed, but no injuries have been reported. Some residents have been allowed to return home, though road closures and evacuation restrictions remain in effect in parts of the area. Officials said returning residents should expect active fire crews, smoke and heavy equipment on local roads.
Crews have been strengthening fire lines on several sides of the blaze, including mop-up work on the north and west sides and continued line construction on the east and south. Officials said overnight moisture and snow helped reduce fire activity, but warmer temperatures and stronger winds expected Tuesday could test containment lines.
The fire started March 12 about 2 miles southeast of Custer, and the cause remains under investigation. More information is available from the Qury Fire incident page and the Custer County Sheriff’s Office.