Rapid City fire update: Homes evacuated as blaze burns near Flormann and Skyline Drive; 'avoid all non-essential travel'

According to the Rapid City Fire Department, the fire was reported at around 6:30 p.m. near Flormann and Skyline Drive.

Update: The forward spread of a fire that broke out in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Tuesday evening has been stopped, according to the Rapid City Fire Department.

A grass fire has broken out in Rapid City, South Dakota. (Representational) (Unsplash)

In a Facebook update, the department said, "Fire crews have stopped the forward progress of the Flormann Street/Skyline Drive fire. Crews are continuing to establish a secure fire line and extinguish remaining hot spots. The fire is currently estimated at approximately 1.8 acres. Please continue to stay clear of the area while firefighters continue suppression operations. Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available."

The cause of the fire remains unknown.

Initial report: A fast-moving grass fire that broke out in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Tuesday evening has prompted evacuations. Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area near Flormann and Skyline Drive.

What we know so far

According to the Rapid City Fire Department, the fire was reported at around 6:30 p.m. near Flormann and Skyline Drive. The blaze has continued to grow, threatening nearby structures and forcing the evacuation of multiple homes.

In a Facebook post, the department said, "Crews are responding to a fast moving timber and grass fire reported at approximately 6:30 p.m. off of Flormann and Skyline Drive. The fire is threatening structures, and multiple homes have been evacuated.

Please stay away from the area and avoid all non essential travel near the incident to allow emergency responders to work safely and efficiently.

If you are in the affected area, follow instructions from emergency personnel and be prepared to leave immediately if directed. Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available."

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety also said the South Dakota Wildland Fire Division was assisting the Rapid City Fire Department with the incident.

"SDWF is among the agencies supporting Rapid City Fire Department this evening with a wildfire in the area of Flormann St. and Skyline Drive. Rapid City FD is the official information source for the "Flormann Fire." Please avoid the area to allow firefighters to work."

Witness reports

Several residents shared videos and updates on social media as smoke from the fire spread across the area.

One resident reported on Facebook, "We watched it start from Dinosaur park. It grew within minutes."

Another added, "Heads up .be careful. Its hot & dry red flag day."