Firefighters have increased containment on the Ward Fire to 27% as crews continue strengthening containment lines around the blaze burning south of Ely.
The fire is now estimated at 8,775 acres with 500 personnel assigned. Fire activity remains concentrated in Lowery Canyon, where steep, rugged terrain continues to make access difficult. Crews are continuing to safely engage the fire while reinforcing containment lines to the north.
Firefighters are focusing Thursday on securing the fire's southern perimeter, improving contingency lines to the north and scouting helicopter landing locations to support construction of containment lines on the west side of the fire. Aircraft will continue assisting crews on the ground with targeted water bucket drops.
Structure protection crews and engine task forces are also expanding defensible space around homes, meeting with residents and conducting home hardening assessments to help reduce wildfire risk.
The Ward Fire started July 31 near Ward Mountain and is burning through sagebrush, pinyon-juniper and mixed conifer fuels in steep, rugged terrain.
The cause has not been released, and there is no estimated date for full containment.
Evacuations remain at Level 1, meaning residents should stay ready and continue monitoring updates from the White Pine County Sheriff's Office. A fire area closure also remains in effect to protect the public while allowing firefighters to safely carry out suppression efforts.
Fire officials said residents should continue monitoring official information and remain prepared to act if conditions change despite the progress crews have made.
Officials also thanked the community for supporting firefighters assigned to the incident, saying the "thank you firefighter" signs displayed throughout Ely "are noticed and appreciated."
