The Billings Gazette

CODY - Warm, windy weather Thursday afternoon fanned the Gunbarrel fire and created a large plume of smoke visible from Cody and the surrounding area.

The fire burning between Cody and Yellowstone National Park saw an estimated growth of around 800 acres, but was not immediately threatening any structures late Thursday afternoon, said Randy Moench, a spokesman for the fire management team.

"It has moved south some, and also to the northeast," he said.

Moench said fire managers suspected the blaze had moved across Falls Creek and another unnamed drainage across Big Creek.

Gusting winds Thursday kept helicopters grounded, although predicted gusts of 30 to 50 mph did not materialize, he said.

Moench said helicopters may be used today to drop water on hot spots in the blaze, and additional engines may be ordered if conditions warrant.

Crews continued working Thursday to clear brush, trees and other fuels at the Star Hill Ranch, near the eastern border of the Shoshone National Forest and north of Highway 14-16-20.

"They reported that they cut six cords of wood in there today, so they've been busy," Moench said.

A community meeting is planned for 11 a.m. today at the fire camp, west of Wapiti.

An estimated $5.6 million has been spent fighting the fire since it was sparked by lightning on July 26. It covers an area of more than 67 square miles, burning mainly in beetle-killed timber.

About 170 people are working on the fire, and resources include two helicopters and seven engines.

Call (866) 588-5206 for more information on the Gunbarrel fire.