Wildfire Burns Near Casper, Wyoming – Evacuations Ordered
A wildfire erupted near Casper, Wyoming, on March 20, 2026, prompting evacuations and concerns as it rapidly spread eastward toward Converse County. As of March 21, 2026, the fire had burned approximately 4,500 acres and was contained, though hot spots remained active within the containment lines.
Evacuations and Road Closures
Residents in neighborhoods east of Casper were ordered to evacuate on March 20, 2026, including those on Sandpiper Street, Castle Stone Drive, Stonewood Street, and Ridgeview Road. Deputies and Fire-EMS units conducted door-to-door notifications. Sandpiper Street was closed due to the immediate threat of fire, and Coal Creek Road was opened to Blue Rock Road to provide an evacuation route.
Fire Progression and Containment
The fire, initially reported around 3 p.m. On March 20, 2026, quickly grew, crossing Coal Creek and moving up the canyon. By the evening, it had reached Converse County and remained active. As of March 21, 2026, containment lines were established in Natrona County, with crews continuing to perform on full containment. Despite containment, areas within the lines continued to burn.
Weather Conditions and Warnings
Strong winds, exceeding 35 miles per hour and shifting frequently, fueled the fire’s rapid spread. The Natrona County Emergency Management team and the Natrona County Fire District urged residents to remain vigilant, as Red Flag warnings were in effect for the area and much of the state.
Fire District Information
The Natrona County Fire Protection District is responsible for providing emergency services to the community. The district operates two stations, east and west, with its main office located at the west station. Each station is staffed by three full-time firefighters on a rotating schedule, totaling eighteen firefighters. A Fire Chief and a Fire Marshal oversee the district. Firefighters work 48-hour shifts, ensuring 24/7 coverage. Funding for the district comes from a three-mill tax levy on unincorporated areas of Natrona County, and oversight is provided by five elected Fire District Officials.
Resources and Contacts
- Natrona County Fire Protection District: https://www.natronacounty-wy.gov/275/Fire-Protection-District
- Natrona County Fire District Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NCFireDistrict/
- Inspections / Training: 307-234-8826
- Station 7 Non-Emergency: 307-265-8656
- Station 13 Non-Emergency: 307-234-6694
For up-to-date information, please check the Natrona County Fire District Facebook page and the Natrona County Emergency Management team’s Facebook page.