Officials are now calling the Murdock and Slate fires both burning northeast of Kamas the Mirror Lake Complex.
The Mirror Lake Complex grew by 634 acres to the east on Wednesday. Officials report that the fire is moving gradually in a north and eastward direction. The Murdock and Slate fires were both caused by lightning and have burned a combined 2,310 acres.
Thanks to the efforts of the more 200 personnel on hand containment of the complex is now at 19%. Crews are being aided by five helicopters and five fire engines.
At the Mirror Lake Campground area crews are working to clear dead and dying trees in case the fire makes its way towards the campground. The forest service has closed access to the campground as well as the Lost Creek Campground.
On Tuesday a drone was illegally flying along the Mirror Lake Highway, crews were able to continue working but the five helicopters would have to stop flying if a drone enters the restricted flying area.
Smoke from the Mirror Lake Complex is visible from Highway 40 and firefighters suspect the smoke will be visible for several days. Forest service officials have asked that the public not report the flames.
