Strong winds in the forecast

Strong winds could start blowing by 1 p.m. today.

Fire officials said the Butler II fire could be contained by Thursday if the winds do not spark erratic fire behavior.

Gust of 40 MPH are expected on the ridgetops on Wednesday night, and slopes could see 20-35 MPH winds.

"There's always a concern with the winds," said Lee Bentley, a member of the team managing the fire.

The winds could drive the fire, said Beth Goodman, a fire expert with the National Park Service.

Rain, which is expected to fall late Thursday, could help with fire prevention, but also cause rock and mudslides along Highway 18.

"It would help fire suppression, but there are also the environmental concerns it leaves for the town," Goodman said.

-- Stacia Glenn