Qury Fire Daily 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: ~7,200 acres

Containment: 2%

Personnel: ~280

Current Situation: Night operations received snow and precipitation overnight, which could slow firefighting tactics today that utilize burnout operations. Crews will continue to work toward securing the perimeter. Mop-up and firing operations will continue as weather allows. Securing property and infrastructure remains a priority and crews will continue to mop up and monitor around structures.

On the northeast and southern end of the fire, crews are activing tying together firelines. On the eastern edge within Custer State Park, the steep and rocky terrain does not allow for the use of heavy equipment. In these areas, use of handline, natural features, and roads are providing better opportunities for establishing containment lines.

Regionally, there is a high level of fire activity creating a limited supply of interagency firefighting aircraft. We are hopeful for an infrared flight today to pinpoint hot spots, weather permitting. One National Guard aircraft will work the fire today as weather allows to aid in firefighting operations.

Weather: Rain/snow mix will give way to breezy conditions today, with a high of 20 degrees. Smoke will continue to remain in the area and is expected to continue as firefighters work towards establishing containment around the fire. A warming trend is expected to move through the area beginning Tuesday with warm, windy conditions.

Closures and Evacuations: Lower French Creek through CSP 87, Hazelrodt, Glen Erin, Flynn Creek, Herbert Draw, SD87, Wildlife Loop Road, Highway 87 to the north boundary of Wind Cave National Park, the park remains open. Repopulation efforts are currently taking place along Hazelrodt Road from the western access to residential traffic only. A map will be provided later this morning on our facebook page. Visit Custer County Sheriff for most up to date information on Evacuations and Closures https://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