The Big Levels fire in Augusta County is now nearly 70 percent contained, according to the U.S. Forest Service incident management team.
As a result of significant progress putting out the wildfire, the St. Mary’s and St. Mary’s Gorge trails are now open.
The fire showed very little activity on Friday as most larger fuels have smoldered down over the last few days. Fire personnel will continue to inspect the perimeter on Saturday to identify any lingering hot spots.
Light precipitation is anticipated on Sunday.
An InfraRed drone will operate again on Saturday over the fire area searching for interior hot spots. No interior hot spots were detected on Friday.
Closures remain implemented in the fire area.
Closures due to Big Levels fire
The following areas are temporarily closed to all public use due to the Big Levels fire to allow for public and firefighter safety:
- Cold Springs trail (FT#524)
- Cellar Mountain trail (FT#587)
- Bald Mountain Jeep trail (FSR#162)
- Bald Mountain Spur Road (FSR#162A)
The national forest system lands north of the Cellar Mountain and within the area bounded by the Bald Mountain Jeep Trail (FSR#162) and the Coal Road (FSR#42) are also closed.
More information
For further information, refer to the GWJNF website, follow on Facebook or contact the Glenwood and Pedlar Ranger District at 540-291-2188.
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Crystal Graham
