OGLALA, S.D. (AP) — Officials say a wildfire that started earlier this week west of Oglala has burned about 11 square miles and is 40% contained.

 The fire began near Prairie Wind Casino on Tuesday evening and moved southeast. 

Oglala Sioux president Kevin Killer says local groups from the tribe, such as the Emergency Management Department, focused on structural protection while the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Wildland Fire Management focused on putting out the fire. 

Two air tankers were dispatched to the area. 

State fire meteorologist Darren Clabo said weather conditions, including 40 mph winds, high temperatures and low humidity, most likely contributed to the fire.

By Associated Press<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658419711474.jpeg" alt="Photo from Oelrichs area, courtesy of Megan Harkless" />
 <figcaption>Photo from Oelrichs area, courtesy of Megan Harkless</figcaption>
 </figure>OGLALA, S.D. (AP) — Officials say a wildfire that started earlier this week west of Oglala has burned about 11 square miles and is 40% contained. The fire began near Prairie Wind Casino on Tuesday evening and moved southeast. Oglala Sioux president Kevin Killer says local groups from the tribe, such as the Emergency Management Department, focused on structural protection while the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Wildland Fire Management focused on putting out the fire. Two air tankers were dispatched to the area. State fire meteorologist Darren Clabo said weather conditions, including 40 mph winds, high temperatures and low humidity, most likely contributed to the fire.

Wildfire burning near Prairie Wind Casino is 40% contained