Wet year, but wildfire still a threat

Wet year, but wildfire still a threat

The Red Canyon Fire was reported at 11:40 am on private land approximately five miles west of Minnekahta Junction on Red Canyon Road in Fall River County or approximately 12 miles from Hot Springs.

The fire was burning in grass and sage brush.  According to a SD Wildland Fire Suppression Division news release, the fire reached a size of 11 acres but was 100% contained by firefighters at 2:18 pm.

No structures were threatened and mop-up operations are continuing at this time. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Full control is expected later Monday evening.

Incident Commander Les Madsen stated that "although we have had significant spring rains wildland fuels are starting to dry out especially with the combination of the wind and the higher temperatures."