A raging forest fire in the rugged, isolated mountains of the George Washington National Forest has been contained, helped by two days of rain that also caused firefighters to pull back until conditions improved. Rain-soaked rocks and leaves caused treacherous footing on the steep mountain slopes making it a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Located in western Augusta County with extremely limited road access, the Marble Valley fire, started by a lightning strike, has raced along ridge tops and consumed 175 acres of forest land. The remote location does not pose an immediate danger to homes but it is near an area used by campers and hikers.