Fire Near Elmo Still Burning After 2 Months

RAWLINS, Wyo. (AP) — A fire started in April in Carbon County is still burning in sub-surface coal cinders and it could smolder for years.

The Associated Press reported Thursday that the fire south of Elmo was allegedly accidentally started by 45-year-old William Wilhelm of Hanna who was using a welding torch to scrap cars.

Carbon County fire warden John Rutherford told county commissioners this week that the fire is still flaming although he said it's not spreading.

Rutherford said he hopes it will be put out when snow falls again but said it could continue to burn for years. Firefighters continue to monitor the fire.

The fire caused $14,800 in damage to electric poles and firefighting costs total more than $18,000.