Firefighters Seek To Suppress New Wildfire

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Winds gusting up to 45 mph are making things difficult for firefighters battling two wildfires in Wyoming.

The first major wildfire of the season in western Wyoming increased markedly in size on Tuesday because of the strong winds.

The Fontenelle Fire burning in the Bridger-Teton National Forest is located about 30 miles northwest of LaBarge and has now about 2,000 acres. It was discovered late Sunday.

Forest spokeswoman Mary Cernicek says a new team of more experienced firefighters is being called in to take over the fight.

In east-central Wyoming, strong winds blew down some tents at the command post for firefighters working to contain a wildfire burning in the Medicine Bow National Forest.

The Russell's Camp fire has burned about 8 square miles. It is 45 percent contained.