From N.D. Dept. of Emergency Services

Updated April 3 at 6:22 p.m.

The temporary flight restriction (TRF) issued April 1 for the 10-mile radius around Medora, North Dakota, has been canceled. Pilots of manned aircraft, as well as operators of unmanned aircraft systems, should continue to exercise caution while flying in this area. The TRF may be reinstated on little to no notice at any time should firefighting operations require clear airspace. Pilots and operators should always check Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) or the FAA TRF site at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr_map_ims/html/ before flying.

From N.D. Forest Service

Updated April 3 at 12:59 p.m.

As of 11 a.m. MDT, firefighters are reporting 50% containment, and an estimated roughly 3000 acres burned for a grass fire near Medora]. Local, state, and federal partners all responded quickly to control the wildfire, preventing any structural damage to the city of Medora and surrounding area. Responders are continuing to make progress on fire containment despite the difficult terrain and sustained red flag conditions.

The USDA Forest Service has issued a closure for the area affected by the wildfire. This includes the Buffalo Gap Trail from I-94 southeast to its intersection with the Maah Daah Hey Trail, and the Maah Daah Hey Trail from the National Park Boundary south to Sully Creek State Park. This order is to protect public health and safety, and is in effect until further notice.

State Forester Tom Claeys with the North Dakota Forest Service joined Governor Doug Burgum and others for a press briefing yesterday at the Burning Hills Amphitheater.

“In the state of North Dakota, we are faced with potentially disastrous wildland fire. Residents responded in a very safe manner. Firefighting resources came together from the local level, the state level, and the federal level, all partners working together collaboratively,” Claeys commented. “Moving forward, we are in a place well ahead of previous years. We started wildland fire season on January 14th with a very large fire, and we urge people to be careful with fire. Be safe and continue to be vigilant as the spring fire season continues.”

North Dakota had a very open winter with not much accumulated snowfall, which left fuels standing up across every part of the state. Claeys urges residents of North Dakota to be cautious and cognizant of fire prevention, as this situation here in Medora could happen in virtually any other place given the right conditions.