Qury Fire Evening Update 3.15.26
Type 3 Interagency Incident Management Team
Incident Commander: Todd Hoover
Location: 2 miles southeast of Custer, SD
Cause: Under Investigation
Size: ~7,500 acres
Containment: 22%
Personnel: ~290
Current Situation: Firefighters successfully gained some containment on the western and northern perimeter of the fire. Although precipitation slowed firing operations this morning, crews were able to successfully strengthen fire lines, further securing the perimeter and working around structures.
On the southern end of the fire, crews continued improving fire lines. Firefighters working in Custer State Park on the eastern side of the fire utilized handline, natural features, and roads to establish containment lines.
Due to the high level of fire activity in the geographical area, and a limited supply of interagency firefighting aircraft, we were unable to secure an infrared flight. This afternoon, a type 3 helicopter was able to conduct a flight around the perimeter. With the combination of the recon flight and boots on the ground, we were able to gain a more accurate map of the fire.
Weather: Smoke will remain in the area and is expected to continue as firefighters work towards establishing containment around the fire. Max temperature tomorrow will be around 36 degrees, with winds 10-15mph. A warming trend is expected to move through the area beginning Tuesday with warm, windy conditions and lower relative humidity as the week progresses.
Public Closures: Lower French Creek Road from Highway 16A to Highway 87, Hazelrodt, Glen Erin, Flynn Creek, Herbert Draw, Highway 87 from 16A to the north boundary of Wind Cave National Park (the park remains open).
Residential reopenings: Repopulation efforts are currently taking place along Hazelrodt Road from the western access to residential traffic only. Residential traffic may now access Hazelrodt Road and its branch roads, and lower French Creek Road from Highway 16A to Whitetail Road.
Fire Managers and Custer County Sheriff’s Office will be reevaluating the reopening of roads daily for residents only. Visit Custer County Sheriff for most up to date information on Evacuations and Closureshttps://www.facebook.com/custercountysd
Temporary Flight Restrictions: There is a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) over the perimeter of the Qury Fire. Please do not fly any unauthorized aircraft over the fire. If you fly, we can’t.
Fire Information
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QuryFire2026/
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/sdbkf-qury-fire
Phone: 605-673-8155
Email: 2026.qury@firenet.gov