Burnout operations on the Cougar Creek Fire are continuing, progressing north to create solid containment lines on the northeastern flanks of the fire.  In spite of very active fire behavior and short range spotting, there was minimal spread of the fire on Tuesday, which has burned 37,900 acres and is listed as 15 percent contained overall.   Continued dry and unstable conditions with a slight chance of thunderstorms late Wednesday afternoon and evening are expected.  Ground crews will be on the lookout for snags and wind shifts as the front moves in during the afternoon.  Significant smoke in the vicinity of the fire and in adjacent areas is expected as burnout operations continue through the week.  Burnouts and bucket drops along the southwestern flank of the fire above Trout Lake were continuing Wednesday.