TAKINI, S.D. – Numerous fire departments remain on scene of devastating wildfires burning across the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation today.
The fires were first reported on Monday, just after 10:00 a.m.
Fire officials say two were initially reported along B.I.A. Route 13. These fires merged becoming the Route 13 Fire.
A third fire, dubbed the Northside Fire, was reported just before 11:00 a.m. Monday.
The fire’s behavior, conditions, and winds prompted the evacuation of Takini School and Community. According to the Takini School Facebook Page, the Cherry Creek School gym is available for those evacuated.
Enning Volunteer Fire Department provided initial response joined by BIA Wildland Fire resources along with Dupree, Faith, Isabel, Timber Lake, and Eagle Butte Volunteer Fire Departments. Black Hawk helicopters are working the fire Tuesday as well. Additional resources are ordered by High Plains Zone Fire Management Officer at the request of the Incident Commander.
The fires have scorched an approximate 20,000 acres so far according to Inciweb and was 17 miles in length. It is 20% contained. Some block burns were done overnight.
Officials say no structures have been lost.
