Fire crews continue to battle the Willow Creek Fire located four miles southwest of Smoot, Wyoming as the blaze enters its sixth day.

As of the latest update, the fire is now estimated to be 4,355.9 acres which is virtually unchanged from the day before. The fire is still being described as active and at 12-percent containment, the same as was reported on Tuesday August 26.

According to the latest update, “crews are making steady progress on structural protection efforts and continue building and reinforcing control lines,” information from Bridger-Teton officials stated. “Recent rainfall has moderated fire activity, allowing crews to work directly on the fire’s edge. This direct approach enables firefighters to engage the fire more efficiently and make steady progress on containment.”

Personnel also installed structural protection systems which consists of setting up sprinkler systems for the communication site and the Allred Flat Campground. Additional hot shots and crews continue to arrive as resource orders are filled and will be integrated with the other divisions.

While rain aids in the progress of fighting the fire, information from forest officials noted that in thick timber it is not as comprehensive as it might seem.

“Rain is a welcome sight but in thick forests, the tree canopy can block much of the rainfall from reaching the ground,” they added. “This means surface fuels like dry needles, branches and brush may stay dry. While current wet conditions are helping reduce fire activity temporarily and widespread showers are in the forecast for Wednesday, a warming and drying trend is expected which may contribute to increased fire behavior.”