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The closure order, which the forest said is for public and firefighter safety, is in effect March 17 to April 16, "unless modified or rescinded sooner." Closed areas include Forest Service lands contained within an area west of the intersection of U.S. Highway 385 and U.S. Highway 16A to the boundary of Custer State Park, and south of the intersection of U.S. 385 and U.S. Highway 16A to the boundary of Wind Cave National Park.

The Qury fire, which started Thursday afternoon, March 12, is located about two miles southeast of Custer. 

The U.S. Forest Service said exemptions to this closure include residents and landowners with a RapidTag ID issued by Custer County to access their private properties, persons with a permit for use of roads, trails, or areas specifically exempting them from this order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized officer, and any federal, state, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force performing official duties.

Latest updates

The interagency team battling the fire said Tuesday evening the wildfire has burned about 9,059 acres and is at 27% containment. More than 350 crew members are working on the Qury fire.

The team said containment has held on firelines south of Highway 16A near Stockade Lake, and crews are actively working on mop-up and suppression repair. Crews continued to secure the lines near Mount Coolidge Lookout in Custer State Park and in the area north of Flynn Creek Road, where burnouts occurred Monday, the team said.

"Taking advantage of the drier weather, crews are working to clean up some of the green islands that are located on the inside of the fire perimeter. So far, firefighters have been successful with their containment efforts," officials said in the update. 

"For returning residents, please understand that firefighters are still actively working on the ground. Drive slowly and safely; expect to see smoke, heavy equipment, engines, and other firefighting vehicles working along and on the roadways," officials said.

Additional information form Tuesday evening's update 

Weather: The max temperature today (Tuesday) was around 60 degrees, with a minimum relative humidity of 30%. Tomorrow is expected to be breezy, warmer, and drier with a lower relative humidity. The warming trend will continue throughout the week.

Public Closures: Lower French Creek Road from Highway 16A to Highway 87, Hazelrodt, Glen Erin, Flynn Creek, Herbert Draw, Highway 87 from 16A to the north boundary of Wind Cave National Park (the park remains open).

Residential reopenings: Repopulation efforts have happened across the entire fire. Access is for residential traffic only. Residents must have the Orange Card issued by the Custer County Emergency Management. Visit Custer County Sheriff for most up to date information on Road Closures

Temporary flight restrictions: There is a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) over the perimeter of the Qury Fire. "Please do not fly any unauthorized aircraft over the fire. If you fly, we can’t."