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.
The fire was estimated at 202 acres as of Monday afternoon, and is burning in very steep terrain, making fire suppression efforts difficult.
Crews are making progress constructing fireline along the ridge at Observation Point and are focusing efforts along the east flank of the fire. Resources on the fire, as of Monday, included 80 firefighters – four helicopters, two 20-person hot shot crews, engine crews from the Darby and Stevensville Ranger District, hand crew from Sula, and a Pinesdale Fire Department water tender.
Fire Danger is currently “moderate” on the Bitterroot National Forest. The weather forecast includes slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms along with hot temperatures and low relative humidity predicted all week. Fire danger is expected to go to “high” mid-week. According to Forest officials, when the fire danger is “moderate” it means that fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of fire starts is usually pretty low. If a fire does start in an open, dry grassland, it will burn and spread quickly on windy days. Most wood fires will spread slowly to moderately. Average fire intensity will be moderate except in heavy concentrations of fuel, which may burn hot. Fires are still not likely to become serious and are often easy to control.
Currently the Bitterroot National Forest is not under any fire restriction. To stay current on fire restrictions, visit http://firerestrictions.us/.
An area closure is in effect. Forest Road 496 is closed to the public from Coyote Coulee Trailhead. Camas Lake Trail #125 is closed as well. The Lost Horse road remains open, but be on the lookout for fire traffic.
Safety of firefighters and the public is always a primary concern. Extremely hot and dry temperatures are predicted for the upcoming holiday weekend and firefighters are asking for the public’s help in preventing human-caused wildfires. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure your coals are cool to the touch before you leave. Also, fireworks are not permitted on National Forests
Firefighters have responded to and extinguished five wildfires this summer on the Bitterroot National Forest. Due to the quick response of crews, all of the previous fires were kept under 1/2 acre in size.