This story is part of our Quick Hits series. This series will bring you breaking news and short updates from throughout the state.
Nov. 11, 10:45 am update: The following is a press release from the City of Laramie Fire Department.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City of Laramie Fire Department
November 11, 2025
Fire Contained Near Mile Marker 310 on Interstate 80 Westbound
Laramie, WY — On the afternoon of November 10, 2025, at approximately 4:45 p.m., the City of Laramie Fire Department responded to a vegetation fire reported near mile marker 310 on Interstate 80 westbound. Unit 46 was the first arriving fire unit on scene. Upon arrival, crews found approximately one-quarter acre burning with flame lengths between six and eight feet, driven by 5–10 mile-per-hour winds out of the west.
The first priority for responding crews was to ensure firefighter and public safety. Interstate 80 westbound was temporarily closed to allow for safe access and suppression efforts. As a precaution, all buildings located west of the fire along Banner Road and Carol Road were evacuated.
Thanks to the quick and coordinated actions of multiple agencies, including the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Albany County Sheriff’s Office, and Laramie Police Department, all evacuations were completed safely and efficiently. The Albany County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) established a shelter for evacuees and provided timely information to the public as updates became available.
This incident required a strong multi-agency firefighting response. Assisting agencies included the City of Laramie Fire Department, Albany County Fire District #1, and its volunteer stations from Central, Centennial, Big Laramie, WYCO, Tie Siding, and Vedauwoo. Albany County Road & Bridge provided invaluable support with three motor graders to help establish firelines and to assist Rocky Mountain Power crews in accessing difficult, wet terrain. Their efforts ensured powerline vehicles could safely reach critical areas and be extricated when necessary.
An incredible effort was also made by the Laramie Area Communications Center dispatch operators, who managed hundreds of phone calls and radio transmissions during the height of the incident. Their professionalism and calm coordination were instrumental in ensuring resources were dispatched efficiently and that responders maintained clear communication throughout the event.
Through the combined efforts of all agencies, the fire grew to approximately 56 acres before being brought to 100% containment by 12:10 a.m. on November 11, 2025. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Crews remain on scene today monitoring and extinguishing a large haystack that continues to smolder within the containment area. Community members traveling in the area may continue to see smoke throughout the day as firefighters and equipment operators from Albany County Road & Bridge work to break down and fully extinguish the hay.
The City of Laramie Fire Department extends sincere appreciation to all cooperating agencies for their dedication and to the community for their cooperation during evacuation and response efforts.
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Update Nov. 10, 9 p.m.:
The grass fire near Exit 310 on Interstate 80 in West Laramie has been mostly contained. The Albany County Sheriff’s Office says no structures were lost and no lives were harmed.
The sheriff’s office said only a few individuals were evacuated and were asked to remain out of the area until fire personnel cleared out, out of an abundance of caution.
“We are incredibly grateful that the fire occurred on a night with light winds, which helped crews contain it quickly,” reads a post on the office’s Facebook page. “This was a reminder of how quickly situations can escalate, and we are so fortunate for the teamwork, quick response, and a bit of luck that helped keep everyone safe. Our hearts go out to all who were impacted tonight.”
The Love’s gas station and Petro Travel Center by the I-80 exit remain closed due to burned power towers. Power to parts of West Laramie remains turned off until utilities are able to safely reevaluate.
According to Wyoming 511, I-80 westbound is open again.
Fire crews are still working to contain the fire 100%.
The sheriff’s office thanked all the organizations that responded. That included Albany County Volunteer Fire Department, Albany County Emergency Management, Laramie Fire/EMS, Laramie Police Department, City of Laramie Street Department, Wyoming Highway Patrol, and Albany County Road and Bridge.
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Nov. 10, 6:30 p.m.:
Law enforcement and fire crews are responding to a grass fire in the area of the Love’s truck stop and Super 8 near Exit 310 on Interstate 80. I-80 westbound is closed. Power has been shut off to most of West Laramie.
As a precaution, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office issued an evacuation for the area east of I-80 and west of the Laramie River to the north of Curtis Street.
Law enforcement is going door-to-door to notify residents and assist with evacuations, according to the Albany County Sheriff’s Office.
Albany County Fairgrounds has opened as an evacuation center at 3510 S 3rd St.
Officials are asking people to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to work safely.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Check the Albany County, WY Emergency Management Facebook page for the most up to date information.
