Teton County lifts Granite Creek evacuation

Teton County, Wyoming has lifted an evacuation order for the Granite Creek drainage in the area near the Cliff Creek fire.

County Commissioners reopened the Granite Creek Road at 10 a.m. Friday. Homeowners may remain in their homes overnight. Other members of the public will be restricted to day use and are only permitted in areas west of Granite Creek Road.

Burn areas, overnight use of Granite Creek Campground, Granite Hot Springs and numerous forest trails will remain closed until further notice.

Cliff Creek Road and Kozy Campground reopened earlier this week.

Teton County Emergency Management Coordinator Rich Ochs cautioned, “We also remind people that this incident is far from resolved. This is still an active fire and people still need to be careful.”

There are still potential health issues from residual smoke and other post-fire hazards. Teton County Public Health Officer Dr. Travis Riddell said, “People should avoid all physical outdoor activity in the Granite Creek area. The young, elderly, pregnant women and those with chronic respiratory or heart conditions, such as asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, and congestive heart failure are the most susceptible to the effects of wildland fire smoke and should completely avoid these areas.”

The Cliff Creek fire is estimated 31,662 acres Friday and is 84 percent contained.