List of fires burning in Montana
By Moosetrack Megan

Posted: June 27, 2016

Headed outside? Here’s the details from InciWeb about fires burning in Montana. Some areas are closed near Hamilton because of 150-acre wildfire.

 

Hamilton, Montana (June 27, 2016) – Firefighters continue suppression efforts on the Observation Point Fire, located 10 miles southwest of Hamilton. The fire was first reported on June 24 and is believed to be lightning caused. Due to more accurate mapping data, fire personnel now estimate the fire is approximately 150 acres in size.

The road to Lost Horse Observation Point and Camas Lake Trail, Forest Road #496, is now closed at the junction with Forest Road #5620 just above Coyote Coulee trailhead. The Camas Lake Trail (#125) is also closed. Lost Horse Creek Road, the Coyote Coulee trails, and Lake Como beach are all open at this time. Visitors should expect to see increased firefighter activity and are encouraged to use caution when recreating.

Crews are making progress constructing fireline along the ridge at Observation Point and are focusing efforts along the east flank of the fire. Personnel on the fire is now estimated at 70 firefighters. Engine crews from the Darby and Stevensville Ranger Districts as well as Trapper Creek Job Corps remain on scene. Additional resources include two 20-person hot shot crews and an 8-person hand crew from Sula. A Type 1 helicopter is expected on scene today in addition to the 3 helicopters already supporting firefighters with water drops.

The weather will become warmer and drier as a high pressure system develops through the weekend. Light and variable winds are expected which may affect fire behavior.

As always, public and firefighter safety remain top priority. With the Fourth of July approaching, please remember fireworks are prohibited on all National Forest land. Visitors should remember to make sure campfires are completely out and cool to the touch when unattended.

 

Basic Information

Current as of ‎6‎/‎27‎/‎2016‎ ‎10‎:‎08‎:‎25‎ ‎AM
Incident Type Wildfire
Cause Lightning
Date of Origin Friday June 24th, 2016 approx. 12:00 AM
Location West of Lost Horse Observation Point
Incident Commander Derek Davenport
Incident Description Wildfire Located In Steep Rocky Terrain Of Bitterroot Mountains

Current Situation

Total Personnel 55
Size 202 Acres
Percent of Perimeter Contained 5%

Outlook

Planned Actions Keep fire east of North Fork of Lost Horse, north of Forest Road (FR) 429, west of FR 496 and south of Hayes Creek.
Remarks Minimize impact on private property and Forest infrastructure.

Current Weather

Weather Concerns Warming temperatures forecast
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