The Big Hollow Fire burning in Gifford Pinchot National Forest saw a jump in containment Friday due to widespread rain.
The wildfire, northwest of Carson and southeast of Cougar, is 40 percent contained, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The acreage burned remains at 24,995 acres, or 39 square miles.
Significant rainfall over the last several days has diminished the fire’s behavior, officials said. Larger fuels such as logs and stumps continue to smolder in place. Firefighters continue to monitor the area, but wet and muddy roads have temporarily limited access for patrolling.
The evacuation order for the cabins at Government Mineral Springs near the Trapper Creek Wilderness has been lowered to Level 1 “Ready,” which means residents should be aware of the potential danger and should “get ready” in the event of a mandatory evacuation.
“Owners can return to the area but should be aware of the danger that still exists. Slow down and use caution as heavy equipment and firefighters continue to work in the area,” the Forest Service said.
On Friday, firefighters planned to remove pumps and sprinkler systems installed as a precaution around Government Mineral Springs.
Sunset Falls campground is open, along with the Pacific Crest Trail. The Department of Natural Resources has lifted the closure order for the Merrill Lake Conservation Area.
The Wind River Highway/Forest Road 30 was reopened Friday afternoon. People commuting through the area are being asked not to stop, but they should drive slow and use caution in the area due to potential smoke.
Some lands, roads and trails in the park remain closed, and the Department of Natural Resources Siouxon Block, including the S-1000 and S-600 roads, are closed.
Campfire restrictions in Gifford Pinchot National Forest have been lifted. Officials cautioned campers who want to have a campfire to be careful and completely extinguish their fires before leaving.
