Rapid City, SD – Residents and visitors near Rapid City are advised that a large plume of smoke may be visible today, Tuesday, April 22, due to a planned prescribed fire in the Mystic Ranger District of the Black Hills National Forest. Officials are urging the public not to call 911 if they see smoke in the area.
The Victoria Prescribed Fire, located approximately five miles southwest of Rapid City, is scheduled to continue today, burning an estimated 85 acres, provided weather conditions remain favorable. The U.S. Forest Service emphasizes that this controlled burn is a crucial tool for reducing hazardous fuels, such as overgrown vegetation, which helps to safeguard local communities, infrastructure, and valuable natural resources from the threat of wildfires.
“Prescribed fires play a vital role in maintaining the health and resilience of our forests,” explained a spokesperson for the Black Hills National Forest. “By intentionally burning under specific conditions, we can mimic natural fire cycles, reduce the risk of larger, more destructive wildfires, and improve overall ecosystem health.”
No road or trail closures are anticipated for the Victoria Prescribed Fire. However, forest visitors are asked to avoid the immediate area during the burn for their safety and to allow fire personnel to conduct their work efficiently. Motorists traveling on roads near the burn area are reminded to watch for warning signs and to exercise caution. If smoke is encountered on roadways, drivers should slow down and turn on their headlights.
Residents in the vicinity may experience smoke drifting from the prescribed burn. Individuals concerned about air quality are encouraged to visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s Fire and Smoke Map at https://fire.airnow.gov/ for detailed, real-time information.
Forest Service officials will be closely monitoring weather conditions in the hours leading up to the ignition. If conditions such as wind speed, wind direction, or humidity are not within the prescribed parameters, the burn may be canceled or postponed.
The Black Hills National Forest will continue to provide updates on scheduled prescribed fire activities through their official website and social media channels. County emergency management officials will also be notified when the burning operations commence.
This proactive measure underscores the Black Hills National Forest’s commitment to fire management and the protection of the surrounding landscape and communities. The public’s cooperation in refraining from unnecessary 911 calls will ensure that emergency services remain available for actual emergencies.
