July 31, 2024
Northern Rockies Team 9, Incident Commander Shane MartinLocation: 7 miles south of Missoula, MT
Start Date: 7/14/2024
Cause: Unknown
Size: 2724 acres
Completion/Containment: 65%
282 Total Personnel; 6 Engines; 1 Helicopters; 5 Hand Crews; 6 Water Tenders; 3 Heavy Equipment
KEY MESSAGE
The containment of the fire remains at 65% while crews worked in difficult terrain to make sure the fire stays in containment lines. Lower temperatures and precipitation decreased activity of the fire, but some heat remains in heavy fuels such as downed trees and stumps.
CURRENT STATUS
The rightsizing of the crews to fit the needs of the fire continues. The crews out on the line continue work mopping up and securing the spotty eastern flank. Heavy equipment completed the indirect line yesterday that was built to protect I-90 and communities nearby. This indirect line would also serve as a fire break if the fire behavior changes
with the incoming weather and to utilize for potential future incidents.
WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR
A cold front moved through the fire area Monday night which brought around 0.05” of rain on the fire. Steady rain turned into showers on Tuesday afternoon totaling 0.3-0.5” of rainfall throughout the day. A ridge of high pressure is building over the region for the next couple of days causing a warming and drying trend. Yesterday’s precipitation
should keep afternoon humidities higher. The winds will become westerly this afternoon with gusts up to 18 mph by mid afternoon.
CLOSURES
Lower Miller Creek Road is closed from debris due to storm damage. A temporary flight restriction is in effect over the fire area. An area and road closure around the fire is in effect due to hazardous conditions resulting from fire activity. Stage II fire restrictions are in effect in the area. Specific closure information and maps are posted on InciWeb at
https://www.fs.usda.gov/