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BONNER- A month after it lit up the sky in a frightening display of fire and smoke, the West Riverside Fire is officially "contained."

But crews with the Montana Department of Natural Resou… Click to Read More and see additional updates

BONNER- A month after it lit up the sky in a frightening display of fire and smoke, the West Riverside Fire is officially "contained."

But crews with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and ConservationDNRC will continue to patrol the fire, mopping up hot spots and making sure the warm, dry weather still in the forecast doesn't cause further problems.

The West Riverside Fire erupted on the evening of August 22nd, consuming more than 1,000 acres in the first few hours and turning the slopes above West Riverside, Bonner and Milltown into a reminder of wildfire's power. Because of the blaze's proximity to homes, it was the most spectacular fire since the Mount Sentinel blaze three years ago, also creating concern for private property.

But a determined attack over the next two weeks gradually subjugated the fire, capping its spread at 3,800 acres. Late last week it was declared "100% contained."

DNRC Fire Information Officer Paul Short says fire crews still have some work to do until the weather changes.

"We're still finding hot spots within the interior of the burn," said Short.

Short notes the DNRC would continue to have engines patrolling the fire and mopping up hot spots saying the department won't call the fire fully controlled until the area gets more precipitation and cooler weather.

Contact Dennis Bragg

BONNER- Firefighters working on the West Riverside Fire burning near Bonner are waiting until after the forecast wind events this week to call the blaze 100% contained.

Hand crews, engines and some heavy equipment have been working on mopping up hot spots, reinforcing lines, and performing rehabilitation of some areas.

The suspicious fire has burned 3,800 acres and the fire camp along Montana Highway 200 is being removed. Fire officials say that the incident operations will now be run out of the Montana DNRC office in Missoula.

If weather conditions remain the same, smoke from smoldering vegetation will continue to be visible on the east side of Woody Mountain for the next couple of weeks.

(photo courtesy inciweb.org)

BONNER- Firefighters are still working on the West Riverside fire, that's burning in Bonner by reinforcing firelines, mopping up hot spots and rehabilitating firelines constructed by heavy equipment during suppression efforts.

Paula Short with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation reports there are still about 50 firefighters who will continue to work on the fire through the weekend.

DNRC fire bosses will evaluate the situation again on Monday to see what other work needs to be done on the blaze.

Fireline rehabilitation in the Johnson Creek drainage and higher up in Marshall Canyon will also involve some reseeding efforts, either now or when cooler temperatures create more desirable conditions according to Short.

The 3,800 acre West Riverside fire remains 80% contained since sparking to life last month and an investigation continues into what caused of the blaze.

BONNER- Managers are continuing to scale back operations on the West Riverside Fire burning above Bonner.

The blaze still covers about 3,800 acres, but fire officials say it's now 80% contained. Crews will be pulling up stakes on the fire camp along Montana Highway 200 Tuesday.

However, around 100 people will continue to work the fire with the help of a helicopter and a dozer.

While smoke can still be seen from the West Riverside fire, Fire Behavior Analyst Matt Butler says that, "fire behavior-wise we continue to see stuff burning out."

The Missoula Ranger District is assuming command of the blaze and will work with four local firefighting crews - the Lolo Hot Shots, the Great Northern crew, and two Grayback contract crews.

There's still now word on what sparked the fire which broke out on August 22nd and has cost over $5.5 million to fight.

BONNER- Fire managers report that more progress has been made on containing the West Riverside fire that's burning 3,800 acres in Bonner.

The blaze is 75% contained with Operations Section Trainee Rick Moreno saying that, "overall the fire is looking really good."

Sunday saw another 164 people released from the fire which started on August 22nd and has cost over $5.3 million to fight so far.

Crews plan to continue with mop up and rehabilitation efforts supported by air operations wetting interior hot spots and the fire perimeter on Labor Day.

Smoke will continue to be visible on the east side of Woody Mountain. There are now just over 250 assigned to the blaze along with a pair of helicopters and one engine.

BONNER - The estimated cost to fight the 3,800 acre West Riverside Fire has reached $5,000,000.

Saturday's weather included a slight increase in temperature, low humidity, and light wind. Crews continued to mop up and strengthen control lines. The fire is now 70% contained.

Hazardous terrain has slowed mop up on the northeastern part of the fire in the Johnson Creek drainage. Smoke was again visible on the east side of Woody Mountain as interior pockets of fuel continued to smolder. Rehabilitation of some fireline continued where it was safe to do so. Northwestern Energy began work Saturday on replacing the
powerline poles that were damaged by the fire and will continue this work next week. Due to the high pressure system moving into the area and cooler night temperatures, smoke from interior burning will be settling in the valley bottom tonight.

Sunday's forecast includes temperatures in the 80s, humidity in the teens and continued light winds from the west. Crews will continue with mop up and rehabilitation efforts supported by air operations wetting hot spots and the fire perimeter. Smoke will hang in the valley bottom until the inversion lifts in the morning and continue to be visible on the east side of Woody Mountain as interior pockets of fuel smolder.

As fire containment increases and fire activity decreases, the fire organization will continue to be sized to meet needs and objectives.

BONNER - The most difficult fire to fight in Western Montana this year is now 65% contained and has cost more than $4,500,000 to fight.

Crews continue to strengthen control lines and mop up on the 3,800 acre West Riverside Fire. On Friday, some isolated torching, creeping, and smoldering occurred, but there was no movement outside the fire perimeter.

Extremely hazardous terrain is slowing mop up on the northeastern part of the fire in the Johnson Creek drainage. Mop up will continue to minimize risk of fire escape along existing control lines.

Smoke will be visible on the east side of Woody Mountain as interior pockets of fuel continue to smolder. Northwestern Energy will begin work on replacing the powerline poles that were damaged by the fire.

As fire containment increases and fire activity decreases, the fire organization will continue to be sized to meet needs and objectives. As of Saturday, 451 people are working on the fire.

Those traveling in the fire area along Highway 200 and the Frontage Road are encouraged not to stop along the roadways for public and firefighter safety reasons. When driving, be aware of increased traffic
in the area, especially at Mile Marker 5 on Highway 200 where the Incident Command Post is located. Speed is reduced to 35 mph near the Command Post.

(photo courtesy DNRC)

MISSOULA- The most difficult fire to fight in Western Montana this year has now cost more than $4 million to fight.

However, firefighters are making good headway against the West Riverside Fire east of Missoula, reaching the 60% containment mark Thursday evening.

The fire, which started on the mountainside above West Riverside on Monday, August 29th, has now burned 3800 acres.

But cooler weather this week has given fire crews an advantage in strengthening fire lines and digging in against another flare-up such as happened last weekend.

After the wet weather on Thursday, DNRC fire managers are bracing for breezy conditions with lower humidity today that could cause the fire to be more active in the afternoon and evening.

Crews are continuing to working on lines on the northeastern side of the fire at Johnson Creek. "Extremely hazardous terrain" has been slowing mop-up work in that area.

DNRC will continue to use helicopter drops with water from the Blackfoot to cool hot spots. The river remains closed from Wisherd Bridge to the old mill site to recreational use to ensure safety of floaters, as well as the pilots.

(photo courtesy DNRC)

BONNER- The recent cooler temperatures combined with some rain has helped firefighters who are still battling the West Riverside Fire, but fire officials say the potential for the fire to grow is still a possibility.

The fire is holding at 3,800 acres burned and is 50% contained. It's cost almost $4 million to fight so far and 590 people are still battling the blaze while the cause remains under investigation.

Wednesday's cool down allowed fire crews to build a handline along the northeastern side of the fire into Johnson Creek while they also built a fireline along the fire's edge on the southeastern perimeter.

The weather on Thursday will be cool and there's a chance some rain could fall on the West Riverside fire.

Fire officials say crews will work on strengthening the lines on the northeast part of the fire down into Johnson Creek while mop up work will continue to minimize risk of the fire escaping the existing lines.

There are still three helicopters and 21 engines assigned to firer that roared to life on August 22nd.

The Blackfoot River between Wisherd Bridge and the old mill site is still closed to recreational use due to helicopters using the river as a water supply. The speed limit along the first five miles of Montana Highway 200 remains at 35 mph.

All National Forest System Lands within the following boundary:

• North of MT Highway 200, beginning at its junction with Marshall Canyon Road, route #55, in the NE1/4 Section 18, T. 13 N., R. 18 W., and continuing easterly to its junction with Gold Creek Road, NFSR #126, in the NE1/4 Section 2, T. 13 N., R. 17 W.

• West of Gold Creek Road, NFSR #126, from its intersection with MT Highway 200 northerly to its junction with East Twin Creek Road, NFSR #2117.

• West of East Twin Creek Road northwesterly to its junction with Upper Twin Creek Road, NFSR #2119.

• West of Upper Twin Creek Road northwesterly to its junction with NFSR #17755.

• West of NFSR #17755 northwesterly to its junction with Sheep Mountain Trail, NFST #513.

• South of Sheep Mountain Trail southwesterly to Sheep Mountain, continuing southwesterly to the junction with Sheep Mountain Road, NFSR #2122, SE1/4 Section 31, T. 14 N., R. 18 W.

• East of Sheep Mountain Road southeasterly to its junction with route #55, Marshall Canyon Road.

• Continuing in a southerly direction, east of Marshall Canyon Road to its junction with MT Highway 200

Gold Creek Road #126, East Twin Creek Road #2117, Upper Twin Creek Road #2119 and Road #17755 remain open. Marshall Canyon Road remains open unless closed by Missoula County.
36 CFR 261.55 - National Forest System trails

Description of Closed Trails:

Sheep Mountain Trail, National Forest System Trail (NFST) #513, from Woods Gulch in the NW1/4 Section 1, T. 13 N., R. 19 W. northeasterly to its junction with NFSR # 17755 in the SW1/4 Section 17, T. 14 N., R. 17 W.

• Sheep Mountain Loop Trail, NFST #1513, in its entirety.

• East Fork Rattlesnake Trail, NFST #514, in its entirety.

• Mineral Peak Trail, NFST #511, in its entirety.

• Upper Twin Creek Trail, NFST #505, in its entirety.

MISSOULA- Our cooler weather may be helping the West Riverside Fire be less active. But it's making air quality worse for people living and working in Hellgate Canyon.

The Missoula City-County Health Department says the morning air inversion didn't lift as it has been doing since the fire started, and smoke has actually become thicker and closer to the ground Wednesday.

Air quality has dropped to "unhealthy" to "very unhealthy" in the Bonner, Milltown, West Riverside and East Missoula.

And, air quality experts say the smoke is pushing up the Clark Fork River and is starting to impact the air quality in Turah and Clinton.

Air quality in downtown Missoula had degraded to "unhealthy for sensitive groups". The Frenchtown and Boyd Park monitors have not recorded any significant changes in air quality since Wednesday morning.

The county says the haze to the west and south of Missoula is still thick, and residents in communities outside Missoula should be using visibility as a guideline to gauge air quality and make decisions about their activity levels Wednesday.

There's still an expectation that the inversion will break later this afternoon and wind could help improve the air quality.

Contact Dennis Bragg

BONNER- The cost of battling the West Riverside fire burning east of Missoula has grown to $3.3 million as fire officials report that little changed overnight with cooler weather helping crews gain on the blaze that's burned 3,700 acres and is now 45% contained.

Fire officials report that helicopter water drops were used to cool hot spots on the northeast side Tuesday as crews continued to construct line along the fire's flanks.

The southeast side of the fire above Johnson Creek continued its slow backing down slope and there was a burnout overnight to bring the fire slowly and carefully down to a road above lower Johnson Creek.

The fire is still burning in steep, rugged terrain and firefighters hope that Wednesday's predicted cool down and rain will help to slow the blaze.

Around 680 personnel are assigned to the fire which was reported August 22nd along with six helicopters and 35 engines. There's still no word on what sparked the blaze.

The closure of the Blackfoot River between Wisherd Bridge to the old mill site that was issued by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks last week remains in effect as does the 35 mph speed limit on the first five miles of Montana Highway 200.

Several trail and land closures are also in effect as crews continue to battle the West Riverside fire.

BONNER- Firefighters working the West Riverside fire near Bonner are starting a test burn on the southeast edge of the fire north of the Blackfoot River and west of Johnson Creek.

Officials say that if the test fire produces the desired results, firefighters will begin an evening burnout to bring the fire downslope in a slow and steady manner towards the Blackfoot River.

The 3,600 acre blaze is still considered to by 35% contained after roaring to life one week ago and there's still no word on what may have sparked the blaze. The fire is being attacked by over 680 people along with six helicopters and 35 engines.

A stretch of the Blackfoot River is still closed to the public near the fire and the speed limit along the first five miles of Montana Highway 200 remains lowered to 35 mph.

(photo courtesy inciweb.org)

BONNER- Fire officials are keeping an eye on the weather as they work to contain the 3,400 acre West Riverside fire burning east of Missoula.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning, which is in effect through midnight. The warning is for low relative humidity and west winds with gusts up to 30 mph. An earlier forecast had Red Flag Warning set to begin at 3:00 p.m.

Helicopters have been making bucket drops to wet control lines along the fire perimeter Tuesday and fire officials say those air operations will continue as long as weather permits. Crews are working in conjunction with air operations to hold control lines in preparation for pending weather conditions and fire movement.

The blaze is considered to be 35% contained after breaking out on August 22nd. There are still over 680 people assigned to the fire along with air support from six helicopters and 35 engines.

Crews are still building firelines on the northeast and west/northwest sides of the fire while on the southern flank, they will continue to patrol and look for hot spots, focusing on keeping fire above the line in Johnson Creek.

Meanwhile, a structure protection group will continue to assess structures in Marshall Canyon for protection needs and be on standby for initial attack.

The fire is burning in steep, rugged terrain and no cause for the blaze has been determined.

A potion of the Blackfoot River along Montana Highway 200 in Bonner is closed off to public access as helicopters continue to use the river for water while the speed limit along the first five miles of the road has been reduced to 35 mph.

BONNER- The West Riverside fire in Bonner hit 3,600 acres on Monday night and is just 35% contained. Crews took advantage of the cooler temperatures on Monday to work on the fire line in the Upper Marshall Creek Drainage.

The blaze is most active on the northwest and northeast sides and fire crews are trying to keep flames from going into the Lower Marshal Canyon. High winds over the weekend caused a spot fire to ignite on the other side of the northern fire line.

Crews continued to work on the 200-acre spot fire including burning out unburned fuel in the fire perimeter. In lower Johnson Creek crews completed a slow burnout to help the fire back down to the established line.

Fire officials say In the area adjacent to West Riverside and on the lower west portion of the fire crews continue to mop-up and look for hot spots. There are currently approximately 680 people assigned to the blaze including six helicopters, 35 engines and four dozers.

A Red Flag Warning has been issued for 3 p.m. until midnight, for high temperatures and low humidity as well as a chance of rain. Crews will continue to construct direct fireline on the north east and west sides, as weather permits.

Several roads, trails and lands are closed in the area in the fire within the following boundary:

• North of MT Highway 200, beginning at its junction with Marshall Canyon Road, route #55, in the NE1/4 Section 18, T. 13 N., R. 18 W., and continuing easterly to its junction with Gold Creek Road, NFSR #126, in the NE1/4 Section 2, T. 13 N., R. 17 W.
• West of Gold Creek Road, NFSR #126, from its intersection with MT Highway 200 northerly to its junction with East Twin Creek Road, NFSR #2117.
• West of East Twin Creek Road northwesterly to its junction with Upper Twin Creek Road, NFSR #2119.
• West of Upper Twin Creek Road northwesterly to its junction with NFSR #17755.
• West of NFSR #17755 northwesterly to its junction with Sheep Mountain Trail, NFST #513.
• South of Sheep Mountain Trail southwesterly to Sheep Mountain, continuing southwesterly to the junction with Sheep Mountain Road, NFSR #2122, SE1/4 Section 31, T. 14 N., R. 18 W.
• East of Sheep Mountain Road southeasterly to its junction with route #55, Marshall Canyon Road.
• Continuing in a southerly direction, east of Marshall Canyon Road to its junction with MT Highway 200.

Gold Creek Road #126, East Twin Creek Road #2117, Upper Twin Creek Road #2119 and Road #17755 remain open. Marshall Canyon Road remains open unless closed by Missoula County.

NEAR BONNER - Wind is the biggest concern for fire crews on the 3,400 acre West Riverside fire near Bonner.

Monday morning's rain didn't soak into the ground, but crews took advantage of the cooler temperatures, to work on the fire line in the Upper Marshall Creek Drainage.

The fire is most active on the northwest and northeast sides. Fire crews are trying to keep the blaze from going into the Lower Marshal Canyon. Crews are also working on the fire line on the Northeast side of the blaze.

"Fortunately, with the wind it will probably be west and moving it away from structures. We still have a concern with the Northwest power line up on the hill side," says Joan Dickerson, West Riverside Fire Information Officer.

On Sunday, high winds caused a spot fire to ignite on the other side of the northern fire line.

Fire crews say cooler temperature always help them get more work done.

This blaze is now 20% contained.

BONNER- The West Riverside fire burning east of Missoula is expected to grow Monday afternoon as higher west winds are expected in that area.

The blaze has grown to 3,400 acres and is 20% contained as it moved into the upper area of Marshall Creek drainages on Sunday.

A structure protection group was also moved into the drainage over the weekend as precaution.

Authorities say that thanks to the help of retardant and water drops from helicopters crews were able to make progress on the sides of the fire from the runs Sunday and the day before.

Fire managers are also developing long-term contingency plans in case the fire moves further east.

Fire crews are also continuing to work on the 200-acre spot fire, including efforts to complete some burnout activities, to remove any unburned fuel in the fire perimeter.

A public information meeting will be held Monday night starting at 6 p.m. in the Bonner School gym.

Fire officials will be on hand to discuss the fire suppression activities and to discuss the population protection plan for the Blackfeet corridor from Bonner to Macro Flats and the Marshall Mountain area.

A section of the Blackfoot River remains closed off to public use in the area of the fire as helicopters continue to gather water as they battle the blaze.

The speed limit along the first five miles of Montana Highway 200 leaving Bonner remains at a reduced speed of 35 mph due to firefighter activity in the area.

Contact Melissa Rafferty

BONNER- The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation will hold another public meeting for the West Riverside Fire, Monday night at the Bonner School Gymnasium at 6:30 p.m.

Right now the fire is 3,400 acres and is 20% contained. Fire officials will be on hand to discuss the fire suppression activities and to discuss the population protection plan for the Blackfoot Corridor from Bonner to Marco Flats and the Marshall Mountain area.

The fire moved into the upper reaches of the Marshall Creek drainage Sunday afternoon. As a precaution, a structure protection group was moved into the drainage.

The fire is high on the upper slopes and was burning in heavy timber, creating a large column of smoke. Crews, with the help of retardant and water drops from helicopters, were able to make progress on the sides of the fire from the runs Saturday and Sunday.

They constructed fireline on the northwest side into a saddle in the Marshall Creek drainage. On the northeast side crews began constructing indirect fireline from the northeast corner toward the powerline.

Crews are in mop-up and patrol on the lower west portion and southern portion of the fire. In lower Johnson Creek the fire continued to burn down toward control lines that were established earlier this week.

Crews utilized a burnout to keep the backing fire even as it approaches the established line. Fire managers are also developing long-term contingency plans in case the fire moves further east.

On Monday, on the northwest side of the fire firefighters will continue to construct fireline in Marshall Creek from a saddle north of Woody Mountain down a ridgeline to the Marshall Mountain ski area.

On the northeast side, crews will construct line north towards the powerline road. On the lower half of the fire firefighters will continue to mop-up and patrol. Structure protection crews will assess the ski area and homes in the Marshall Mountain ski area.

BONNER- The West Riverside fire burning above Bonner belched out more smoke on Saturday as unexpected winds caused the blaze to flare up and chew into several hundred more acres.

Some crews even had to be pulled off the fire during the afternoon hours after heavy smoke caused hazardous conditions.

"The fire's still spreading, the trees are torching and they're spreading spots, and they could be starting spots in a spot where we don't want the fire to go," said Type 2 Team Incident Commander Mark Grant.

Saturday's high winds caused a spot fire to ignite across the northern fire line that was established on Friday and compromised a main NorthWestern Energy power line.

However no one is currently without power and the line has been shutdown. Fire crews are closely monitoring the spot fire which is now burning 3,100 acres, up from 2,300 earlier on Saturday.

The blaze, which was sparked last Monday evening, is about 30% contained. Nearly 500 people are attacking the West Riverside Fire including three helicopters, 19 engines and five dozers.

The Blackfoot River is still closed to public access from Wisherd Bridge to the old mill site in Milltown. Montana, Fish, Wildlife & Parks instituted the closure last week as helicopters continue to gather water from the rivers in the area.

Missoula County Sheriff's Department deputies say the fire's location is creating other hazards, so the speed limit on Highway 200 between Bonner school and the fire camp at mile marker 5 has been reduced to 35 mph.

Deputy Jack Dicken says the fire and the helicopters dipping for water distract drivers.

"They are having to draw water out of the river so close to the roadway that it's something a little bit of a shock to motorists as well as a distraction to pilots, so we're asking people to keep traffic in that area to a minimum. If you do have to use the Highway 200 corridor...slow down, proceed with caution, but please, do not stop or park," Dicken stated.

Fire officials say they will mop-up the south and west side of the main fire and around the 200-acre spot fire and crews will also work to strengthen fire line immediately north of Woody Mountain and look for opportunities to extend the line further northeast following the ridge.

Bonner- Unexpected wind gusts up to 30 mph caused the West Riverside Fire to flare Saturday afternoon, causing a spot fire to appear northeast of the fire line that was established Friday.

The size of the spot is uncertain at the moment, but according to fire officials, a main NorthWestern Energy power line was "compromised"; however no one is currently without power. It's unknown if the power line sustained any damage.

No structures are threatened with this new flare-up and no injuries occurred. An infrared flight is scheduled for Saturday night to better evaluate the fire situation.

The fire is burning at 2,300 acres and remains 30% contained.

BONNER - You may see an increase of smoke and fire activity on the West Riverside Fire Saturday.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation says the fire is still 21-hundred acres and 30 percent contained.

On the south side of the fire, firefighters accomplished another successful burnout Friday night north of Bonner. Crews continue to mop-up and patrol the completed line on the west side, south side, and the 200 acre spot fire.

Friday afternoon, crews completed a burnout north of Woody Mountain adjacent to a line established the day before. The purpose of this burnout was to strengthen the fire line and remove adjacent fuels.

On Saturday there is a chance of afternoon thunderstorms and 15-20 mph winds. Firefighters will continue burnout operations along the established line northeast of Woody Mountain and down into the Johnson Creek drainage, to further secure this line. Once a secure line is established, burnout operations will occur within the interior of
the lines with the intent of removing unburned fuels. These operations will occur in Johnson Creek drainage this afternoon, if conditions are favorable.

Increased smoke and fire activity is to be expected. Helicopters will
continue to aid the firefighting effort in this area with water drops to cool hot spots. Mop-up will continue on the south and west side of the main fire and around the spot fire.

Right now there are eleven 20-person crews, 3 helicopters, 19 engines, 5 dozers, and a total of 484 people.

Montana FWP has closed the Blackfoot River from Wisherd Bridge
to the old mill site to recreational use.

Those traveling in the fire area along Highway 200 and the Frontage Road are encouraged not to stop along the roadways for public and firefighter safety reasons. When driving, be aware of increased
traffic in the area, especially at Mile Marker 5 on Highway 200 where the Incident Command Post is located. Speed is reduced to 35 mph near the Command Post.

BONNER - People who live near the West Riverside Fire received assurance they probably won't have to leave their homes at a public meeting Friday night at Bonner School.

Cambridge Road resident Cindy Wisherd said in a stressful week, this news comes as relief.

"Unless the wind comes up or maybe a fire jumps a line or something, I think we are pretty safe," Wisherd said.

But Missoula County Sheriff's deputy Jace Dicken said while the likelihood is minimal, it's still important to plan ahead.

"Wildland firefighters have done an excellent job of trying to mitigate all the fuels close to residents in and around houses, but we still need to have the plan in place," Dicken said. "We still need to speak to the idea that if that does become a requirement, that we've at least communicated and have a plan that we can implement."

Dicken said the biggest public hazard now is the first five miles of Highway 200, between Bonner School and the fire incident command center and camp. He said the fire and helicopters are distracting to drivers, and deputies have already seen a few close calls.

"They are having to draw water out of the river so close to the roadway that it's something a little bit of a shock to motorists as well as a distraction to pilots," Dicken said.

The sheriff's office set up signs and is prohibiting cars from stopping and parking on the shoulder of the highway.

Dicken also urges tubers, rafters and fishermen to consider recreating somewhere other than the Blackfoot River this weekend.

Meanwhile, residents at the Bonner meeting thanked the people working on the fire for doing their jobs well.

"They're doing a real good job," Wisherd said. "I appreciate the firefighters, we really do. We're thankful there are pople that do that. We really are."

BONNER - Crews had a good day and made progress on the West Riverside Fire burning near Bonner. The fire is now 30% contained.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation says firefighters continue to strengthen fire-line on the west side of the fire from the valley bottom to north of Woody Mountain. Friday night firefighters will work on the south side, across from Bonner, to secure more line with small burnout options.

Crews and an excavator are continuing to construct and reinforce line on the east along the north side that slopes down towards Johnson Creek.

Saturday, fire managers will continue to work to keep the fire north of the Blackfoot River. If weather conditions are favorable, firefighters will begin a burnout operation along the east side of Woody Mountain in Johnson Creek. Crews will continue to mop up the south and east
side of the fire as well as the spot fire. Helicopters will be available as needed to support firefighting efforts.

As of Friday night there are 11 20-person crews, 2 helicopters, 19 engines, 5 dozers, and a total of 484 people.

Montana FWP is restricting recreational use on the Blackfoot River from Wisherd Bridge to the old mill site to recreational use. This closure is in effect.

Those traveling in the fire area along Highway 200 and the Frontage Road are encouraged not to stop along the roadways for public and firefighter safety reasons. When driving, be aware of increased
traffic in the area, especially at Mile Marker 5 on Highway 200 where the Incident Command Post is located. Speed is reduced to 35 mph.

MISSOULA - West Riverside Fire Incident command and Public Information staff will
be hosting a community meeting for the West Riverside Fire Friday night at 6:30 p.m. in the Bonner School gym.

Jason Johnson, Public Information Officer for the Missoula County Sheriff's Office will be there to discuss the Sheriff's Office role in evacuations should they become necessary.

The West Riverside Fire which started Monday night is considered suspicious. Crews completed a burnout Thursday night just north of Bonner. The burnout operations were successful as they removed unburned fuel between the community and the fire.

Firefighters will continue constructing a fireline along the ridge to the northeast of Woody Mountain and down into the Johnson Creek drainage.

Mop up will continue on the south and west sides of the fire. Helicopters will continue to aid the firefighting effort in this area with water drops to cool the hot spots.

The fire has torched 2,100 acres and is 25 percent contained. Fish, Wildlife and Parks is restricting recreational use on the Blackfoot river from Whisherd Bridge to the old mill site.

(MISSOULA)- Yesterday's winds have helped to clear some of the smoke away for Missoula residents, although "unhealthy" conditions persist in the immediate vicinity of the West Riverside Fire.

Overnight air inversions, coupled with more smoke pouring into Missoula from adjacent fires in Idaho, had given the valley it's worst fire smoke conditions in a couple of years by Wednesday afternoon.

But the Missoula City-County Health Department says Thursday's winds helped to improve that situation.

Some smoke did seep back into Missoula from Hellgate Canyon overnight, but the level of particulates has dropped for the downtown and Rattlesnake areas.

Air quality in East Missoula, Milltown, West Riverside and Bonner remains "unhealthy for sensitive groups" to "unhealthy" this morning. That means people with respiratory problems, children and the elderly should avoid spending too much time outside.

However, officials say the smoke is already starting to lift from the valley floor near the West Riverside blaze and conditions should continue to improve through the afternoon as warm temperatures, and more winds help to clear away the smoke.

The county is keeping a close eye on conditions to see if more smoke comes into the valley from the prescribed burns in Idaho, west of Missoula and just over the Bitterroot Divide.

BONNER- Fire managers say a "burnout" to remove potential fuel that could allow the West Riverside fire to burn back into the community is a success and will help build a safety zone between homes and the burning mountainside.

The fire, which is being called a case of "arson" by the Missoula County Sheriff's Department, started Monday evening above the West Riverside neighborhood and has burned over 2,100 acres.

The most recent efforts were to complete the burnout to get rid of brush and other debris that might allow the fire to spread back into the adjacent neighborhoods. Mop-up of that burnout area will be continuing today.

Fire crews are also starting some mop-up work along the west side of the fire from the bottom of the valley up the slopes towards Woody Mountain. Fire line has been completed along the west side of the blaze, which is now 25% contained.

Much of the heavy work continues down a ridgeline from the top of Woody Mountain towards Johnson Creek. Crews have been able to fully line a 200-acre spot fire that had threatened to expand the fire into new areas. And plans are being made for additional burnouts with more water drops from helicopters along the southern flank of the fire towards Bonner.

Contact Dennis Bragg

MISSOULA- Smoke from the West Riverside fire burning near Missoula is affecting the air quality in surrounding areas. The air quality in Bonner, West Riverside, Milltown, and East Missoula is "very unhealthy" to "hazardous."

During hazardous conditions all children and adults should avoid or limit all outdoor exertion. But as of late Thursday morning, the air quality in Missoula was listed as moderate.

Missoula City-County Health Department officials expect the air quality to improve Thursday afternoon as higher temperatures and afternoon breezes lift the smoke out of the valley bottoms.

The department is encouraging those people living in those areas to use visibility as a guideline to help gauge the air quality at any given time.

Contact Allyson Weller

BONNER- Investigators don't know caused the now 2,100 acre West Riverside fire that's burning above Bonner, but they do say it's somewhat suspicious.

That fire is now 20% contained, but those managing the firefighting efforts say the flames and smoke will be around for awhile longer.

"This fire is going to be with us for a long time. This fire is not going out until we get a significant change in weather and that's going to be either rain or snow," Montana DNRC Area Manager Tony Lane told residents during a Wednesday evening meeting.

"Treat the smoke as a big barbeque because I think we're going to have it for awhile," Missoula District Ranger Paul Matter added.

About 50 people were on hand for Wednesday the fire briefing to learn the latest information on the fire which sparked to life on Monday evening.

Governor Brian Schweitzer also received an update on the status of the firefighting efforts on Wednesday.

He told reporters that the total cost of fighting fires across the state has reached about $5.5 million so far this fire season, with $2 million of that total to be paid back to the state by the federal government. He added that Montana has a substantial fire budget of $20 million.

The West Riverside fire is slowly backing down steep, rugged terrain toward the Blackfoot River on the south side of the fire. Meanwhile, crews on the fire's west side are completing a burnout to strengthen fire lines north to Woody Mountain. Firefighters are also trying to keep the flames out of Marshall Canyon.

Firefighters have also built a fireline around 70% to 80% of the spot fire zones in the Johnson Creek drainage where there are a few homes.

Managers are trying to discourage anyone from stopping along the roadways for safety reasons, warning that there will be increased fire traffic along Montana Highway 200 as well as along the frontage road.

Anyone who has any information to help investigators identify who's responsible for starting this fire is being asked to call Crimestoppers at (406) 721.4444. There's a cash reward up to $1,000 available and callers can remain anonymous.

The ongoing firefighting efforts have prompted state wildlife officials to close a seven-mile stretch of the lower Blackfoot River from Wisherd Bridge to the confluence with the Clark Fork River.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials say that the closure is necessary for public safety reasons as aircraft dip water out of the river to fight the fire. The closure will remain in place as long as firefighters need that stretch of river.

There are over 260 personnel assigned to battle the blaze along with four helicopters, eight engines and five dozers. Fire officials say they plan to spend Thursday focusing on keeping the fire north of the Blackfoot River and heavy helicopters will continue to aid the firefighting effort in the area with water drops to cool hot spots.

Firefighters will also continue constructing a fireline along the ridge to the northeast of Woody Mountain and down into the Johnson Creek drainage.

Smoke from the blaze continues to fill the Missoula Valley with smoke and on Wednesday the air quality in the Missoula Valley went from good to moderate.

Fire officials are warning drivers that the heaviest fire traffic continues to be near the Incident Command Post which is located near mile marker 5 on Highway 200. The speed limit has been reduced to 35 mph in that area.

Click here to view a photo gallery from the West Riverside fire.

BONNER- The West Riverside fire is a concern on many Montanan's minds and according to officials it may stay that way for awhile.

"This fire is going to be with us for a long time. This fire is not going out until we get a signicant change in weather and that's going to be either rain or snow," said DNRC area manager Tony Liane.

"Treat the smoke as a big barbeque because I think we're going to have it for awhile," Missoula District Ranger Paul Matter added.

A fire information community meeting was held at the Bonner School baseball field Wednesday where those battling the fire talked to residents about their concerns as well as the progress they have made.

An incident update, operations update and fire behavior update were all given and a question and answer period followed the meeting.

For those who missed the briefing or still need more information CLICK HERE or call (406) 208.0934.

Contact Alex Schwier

MISSOULA- State wildlife officials have closed down part of the Bonner River near Bonner due to the West Riverside Fire.

Fire officials asked Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to close a seven-mile stretch of the lower Blackfoot River from Wisherd Bridge to the confluence with the Clark Fork on Wednesday.

FWP says the closure is necessary for public safety as aircraft dip water out of the river to fight the West Riverside Fire.

Wisherd Bridge, located one mile downstream of Angevine Fishing Access Site (FAS), remains open only as a take-out point for those boating upstream on the Blackfoot River.

Meanwhile, there is no access to Marco Flats or Weigh Station FASs, which are both located within the closed section of river.

FWP officials say the emergency closure will remain in place as long as this stretch of river is needed as a source of water for fire suppression efforts.

MISSOULA- The smoke from the West Riverside fire is taking the beauty off the scenic views in the Missoula Valley. But local air quality experts say it's not causing a health issue yet, unless you suffer from respiratory problems.

Dying winds allowed smoke from the fire east of Missoula to settle throughout Hellgate, downtown Missoula and the Rattlesnake, as well the Bonner area Wednesday morning.

But the Missoula City-County Health Department says the air quality was still "good" to "moderate" later in the afternoon, as some winds helped to clear out some of the smoke.

However, smoke from the fire in the Clark Fork and Blackfoot valleys has been thick enough to be "unhealthy" for sensitive groups and "moderate" to "unhealthy" in the Potomac Valley and areas north of Missoula.

That means people with heart of lung disease, smokers, children and the elderly should limit their time outdoors.

Additional smoke has also been settling into the air from prescribed burns in the Upper Clearwater and the Saddle Mountain fires which are straddling the Bitterroot Divide.

The smoke is expected to increase again overnight as an air inversion develops with the cooler temperatures and higher humidity. Health officials say Missoula can expect another smoky morning, especially as downdraft winds from Hellgate Canyon sends smoke back into the main valley.

Southern parts of the county as well as most of Ravalli County can expect to see more smoke settle in from the Saddle Fire complex burning along the Montana/Idaho border in the southern Bitterroot Valley.

Contact Dennis Bragg

MISSOULA- Governor Brian Schweitzer got an update on the status of the West Riverside Fire and the potential dangers on Wednesday. The fire is nearly 2,000 acres and is 10% contained.

"If we go through the afternoon looking pretty good, there's thunderstorms predicted tonight; it's supposed to be dry. What we're worried about is there could be new starts in the area, but with the thunderstorms, you get the outflow winds, strong winds and when you get those you don't know which way the winds are going to blow," said fire behavior analyst, Matt Butler.

Fire officials say they could see more fire activity due to temperatures in the mind 90's and a drop in humidity.

Officials say they planned for several possible scenarios for the fire, but stress that safety is the #1 priority, both for those living in the surrounding area and for the firefighters working to contain it.

Fire crews will continue 24-hour structure protection in the threatened areas.

So far, the total cost of fighting fires across the state reached about $5.5 million with $2 million of that total to be paid back to the state by the federal government. Governor Schweitzer said Montana has a substantial fire budget of $20 million.

He stressed that Montanans be smart during this fire season.

"We all know what we ought to do in the fire season. We need to put those fires out or maybe don't even start a campfire to begin with. Be careful with your cigarettes. When you're driving across grass, and there's a lot of it this year, that muffler could spark a fire. So let's not start these fires," Schweitzer cautioned.

Fire officials also said many cell phone users lost coverage yesterday due to a very large amount of people sending cell phone pictures of the fires. They warn this loss of communication could be potentially dangerous, especially if they order evacuations.

MISSOULA- Authorities are looking for the public's help as they try to determine what sparked the 2,000 acre West Riverside fire which is burning in hills above Bonner.

Crimestoppers is seeking any information that would help identify the person or persons responsible for igniting the blaze which was first reported at around 6 p.m. on Monday.

Callers who report information may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000 and callers can remain anonymous.

Governor Brian Schweitzer received a fire briefing on the firefighting efforts Wednesday afternoon and a public information session has been set for 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday at Bonner School ball field.

At last check, over 150 people were fighting the West Riverside fire that's considered to be only 10% contained.

MISSOULA- Governor Brian Schweitzer will be in Missoula on Wednesday to hear first hand about the efforts to battle the 2,000 acre West Riverside fire that's burning in the mountains above Bonner.

The governor will meet with fire officials at noon in Missoula Rural Fire District fire station #4, located on Highway 10 East in Missoula.

The blaze, which spread quickly after being spotted on Monday evening, is only 10% contained as over 150 personnel work to the battle on the ground and from the air.

Meanwhile, a community fire briefing will be held on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. in the ballpark at Bonner School.

Fire officials will be hand to describe the firefighting efforts and to answer questions from area residents.

BONNER- Fire managers are planning to meet with the public tonight to discuss their latest efforts to control the West Riverside fire, which has scorched more than 2,000 acres above the Clark Fork Valley.

The fire started suddenly on Monday evening and had burned over 1000 acres by midnight.

Strong winds and a lack of humidity allowed the fire to keep spreading Tuesday, but drops of water and retardant from the air helped to slow the blaze and protect homes and structures below the mountain. So far no evacuations have been ordered.

The fire remains about 10% contained.

Fire officials will meet with residents in a community information meeting tonight at 6:30pm at the Bonner Schools ballpark to update the latest on the fire and answer questions.

BONNER- Crews are making progress battling the West Riverside Fire that's still burning in the mountains above Bonner, reporting that the blaze is 10% contained while having burned 2,000 acres.

Firefighters amped up the air effort on Day Two of the West Riverside Fire with four helicopters spending over seven hours in the air dropping hundreds of buckets of water on the mountainside.

While the fire didn't grow a lot on Tuesday, Fire Information Officer Tom Rhode cautioned that the weather conditions are keeping it burning.

"The weather of course is gonna continue to be hot and dry the winds will tell us really which way the fire will move."

Six ground crews, seven engines, and more than nine aircraft are trying to keep the fire north of Montana Highway 200 and east of Marshall Canyon.

Firefighters have also successfully protected homes and structures with fire lines so far, but the fire is still burning.

"Clearly it's not a fire that's gonna go out overnight, given the conditions we've got and the weather forecast ahead of us," Rhode commented,

Crews planned to conduct an infrared flight overnight on Tuesday to find the hot spots and to get a better idea of the exact size of the fire. There are also more choppers and firefighters on order to help battle the blaze.

Meanwhile, a dozer line encircles about 70 percent of the Johnson Creek area where there are a handful of homes.

The forecast does not look too promising for Wednesday with low humidity, 25 mph winds and a chance of dry thunderstorms.

Governor Brian Schweitzer will get a personal briefing on the fire on Wednesday.

Contact Breanna Roy

BONNER-WEST RIVERSIDE, MT - Crews made progress Tuesday on the West Riverside Fire still burning in the mountains above Bonner. It is now 10 percent contained. There was not a great deal of growth. Fire managers say the fire still covers about 2,000 acres but they have an infrared flight planned Tuesday night to give assess the situation and to get a better idea of the exact size of the fire.

Public Information Officer Terina Mullen says more helicopters and more firefighters are on order for Wednesday. Governor Brian Schweitzer also plans on getting a briefing on the fire at noon at Missoula Rural Fire Station #4.

Mullen says Lolo Hot Shot crews made good progress on the left flank of the fire by digging in a hand line. She said the fire burned to the top of the ridge Monday night, but flames ignited several spot fires in the Johnson Creek area where there are a handful of homes. Mullen said dozer crews since dug out a line around 70 percent of that area.

Winds are expected to die down Tuesday night, but the Wednesday forecast is not favorable for firefighting efforts. There will again be a strong potential for spotting because of low humidity, 25 mile an hour wind gusts and a good chance of dry thunderstorms. Managers expect to hold a community meeting Wednesday evening at a location to be determined.

Residents living in the West Riverside were on edge Monday night, wondering if the suspicious fire would endanger their homes.

While residents were never officially evacuated, it certainly was a frightening sight to see the flames so close to homes Monday night. We talked with one man who says the fire was a little too close for comfort.

"We just got home from my son's football camp. We pulled in and he saw smoke on the hill. So, I decided to go and find out where it was coming from, so I ran up the hill and saw that about 300 yards up to the left of me was on fire," West Riverside resident Sidney Bailey recalled.

He was greeted Monday night by flames covering the mountain near his home. "At first it was a little unnerving until it started getting further and further down the hill and then it got a little scary," Bailey told us.

The fire grew quickly through the evening getting dangerously close to homes in the area and as the flames spread, Bailey prepared for the worst.

"Being at the base of the mountain I just started putting important papers and pictures in the truck," Bailey stated.

But residents were never officially evacuated. "The rest of the neighbors, some of them decided to take off, and others didn't. No one ever really told us to evacuate, but I didn't take any chances," he continued.

Bailey and his family spent the night with friends and told us that the whole scene is something he'll never forget.

"Last night it looked like it was a war zone. The whole side behind me was just flickering little pieces of flames everywhere. It was unreal."

He's also grateful to the firefighters who worked through the night to keep everyone safe. "I appreciate everything they do. They have a tough job and I'm glad they kept the houses from blowing up."

The Montana has an emergency shelter on standby in East Missoula if folks should have to evacuate the area.

Contact Chrissy Kohler

MISSOULA- The West Riverside fire burning in Bonner has scorched 2,000 acres and officials say it's still 0% contained as crews continue their ground and aerial attack on the blaze.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation's Paula Short says firefighters are focusing on the east and west flanks of the blaze, as well as along the bottom edge, where there are roughly 40 structures.

Incident Commander Ken Parks praised the work of the structure protection group, saying they feel confident that the imminent threat to those homes has greatly diminished.

Two 20-person crews are constructing fireline along the western flank of the fire while crews, dozers and engines are working the eastern flank where the most active portion of the fire is burning.

Helicopters have been seen dropping buckets of water and heavy airtankers with retardant are available when they're needed.

Short says that a structure protection group is also working between the east and west flanks along the southern end which is closes to the homes in West Riverside, putting out hot spots and patrolling the area.

So far, no evacuations have been ordered and no structures have been damaged. The Montana Red Cross has set up an evacuation center at the East Missoula Community Center, which is ready for use if it's needed.

Short says fire crews have seen single and group tree torching and active burning, especially along the east side of the fire, where the blaze is the most active.

WEST RIVERSIDE- Fire crews took to the skies again around 8 o'clock Tuesday morning to drop water on a fire that broke out Monday night and has now burned around 2,000 acres in Western Montana.

The blaze is burning on the mountain above the West Riverside neighborhood of Bonner and is visible from Interstate 90.

More than 100 firefighters worked overnight and on Tuesday morning additional crews were briefed before heading up the mountain.

The fire broke out Monday at around 6 p.m. and investigators hope to determine where the fire started sometime on Tuesday.

No mandatory evacuations have been declared so far and it appears residents are staying in their homes. Meanwhile, the Montana Red Cross says they have a shelter ready to go at the East Missoula Community Center if it's needed.

Fire managers are flying over the fire to determine how much the blazed burned overnight.

(photo courtesy inciweb.org)

Contact Breanna Roy

EAST MISSOULA- The 1,500 acre West Riverside fire burning near Bonner has prompted the Montana Red Cross to put a shelter on standby for any residents that may end up being evacuated.

The East Missoula Community Center at 314 Montana Avenue is ready to open with staff according to a press release and anyone requiring shelter should call 1.800.ARC.MONT for more information.

Some area residents had packed late Monday night, but were waiting for a word from firefighters on whether to move out of the area.

Sprinklers watered rooftops and lawns and clusters of neighbors watched firefighters attack hotspots, and patrol the hill where the fire could eventually contact homes at is base.

While there are no mandatory evacuations in place, Tuesday's high winds and hot weather will challenge those fighting the blaze.

"Evacuations aside, if homeowners are scared to go home, they need a place to stay," says statewide disaster director Colleen Tone. "We are here to help."

The community center could hold as many as 50 overnight residents, Tone said and would remain accessible should highway closures occur.

Out of area relatives needing information on those affected by fire should call 1-800-ARC-MONT, or can check www.safeandwell.org. Families affected by fire should register there on Tuesday.

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MISSOULA- Firefighters worked through the night on the West Riverside Fire, focusing their efforts on portions of the fire closest to homes to construct and secure firelines.

Fire officials say they were helped by the weather as cooler overnight temperatures and increased humidity calmed the fire.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation's Paula Short says the blaze is still estimated 1,500 acres.

But Short cautions the predicted weather will continue to challenge firefighters, with continued high temperatures and low humidity, but the good news is that the wind is not expected to be as strong as it was on Monday.

More fire crews will begin arriving Tuesday with an incident management team being briefed in the morning while there are also orders for additional aircraft, hand crews and engines to join the effort according to Short.

There are currently, an estimated 120 personnel working on the West Riverside Fire and Short says that no evacuations have been ordered and no structures are imminently threatened.

Fire officials plan to fly over the fire Tuesday morning in hopes of getting a better estimate of the size of the fire.

Meanwhile, helicopters will be dropping buckets of water to assist crews on the ground with line construction and air tankers will be placed on standby in case they are needed.

The public is asked for their cooperation in minimizing congestion along the I-90 corridor, the frontage road between East Missoula and Bonner, and other areas by not stopping to view fire operations.

The cause of the blaze has not yet been determined.

WEST RIVERSIDE, MT - The fire near the West Riverside neighborhood burned over the top of the mountain and now threatens rural homes on the other side. Missoula Rural Fire District Deputy Chief Paul Finlay said crews are closely monitoring Cambridge Road at mile marker 4 along Highway 200. He is awaiting word from firefighters in that area to determine whether to order mandatory evacuations. Finlay earlier stated those threatened structures are homes.

Officials are also concerned with the number of people who continue to enter the area in order to get a closer look at the fire. They urge anyone not involved in firefighting efforts to stay away for safety reasons.

The fire sprang to life at approximately 6 p.m. Monday. Strong, dry winds pushed flames up the mountainside and sent a large plume of smoke into the air. Firefighters from East Missoula and Clinton are helping to man the fire lines. Crews from as Frenchtown to Florence also received a call to help with structure protection.

An incident management team is expected to arrive on Tuesday.

WEST RIVERSIDE- Some resident in the West Riverside neighborhood of Bonner left their homes Monday evening as the fire line was within about 50 yards from some structures, but fire officials have not declared mandatory evacuation orders.

The wind has been pushing the flames up the mountain to the east and at last check, the blaze had burned over 150 acres.

A Missoula Rural Fire District Deputy Fire Chief tells Montana's News Station that hey don't yet know what started the fire and that crews were called out just after 6 p.m. Monday.

Fire crews are working the ground and helicopters were seen dipping into the Clark Fork River for water. An incident command team has been requested as has additional fire crews according to Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation's Paula Short.

The main concern right now is safety and while at this point it appears that residents and structures are safe, the flames are drawing a lot people to the scene and a smoke plume can be seen for miles.

Fire officials are asking the public to stay out of the area as crews continue to battle the blaze.

WEST RIVERSIDE- Fire officials report that gusty winds and hot temperatures caused a fire burning in the Bonner area to expand rapidly on Monday afternoon.

The West Riverside Fire is estimated at 150 acres burning in grass, shrubs and timber and an incident management team has been ordered for the fire according to Paula Short with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

The cause of the fire is not known yet and Short says firefighters are battling erratic winds and dry fuels, which have caused the fire to spread quickly to the top of the ridge.

There are no structures immediately threatened by the fire although there are homes in the vicinity. No evacuations have been ordered yet according to short.

The Montana DNRC and local fire departments from Missoula, East Missoula and Clinton have responded to the scene and a DNRC helicopter is working the fire, with another ordered. An order has also been placed for a 20-person crew.

The fire is clearly visible along the I-90 corridor, and the public is reminded to use caution traveling through the area due to increased fire traffic and fire operations. A large plume of smoke is also easily visible to the south, in the northern Bitterroot Valley.

BONNER- Hot temperatures and strong winds are fanning a fire that erupted on the hillside above Bonner Monday evening, with smoke and flames visible over a broad area of Missoula.

The blaze was called around 6:00 p.m. when residents reported seeing smoke and flames on the mountain above Antelope Drive.

Missoula Rural Fire units, already busy cleaning up from a hazardous materials call at DIRECT-TV's call center west of Missoula, were freed up to rush to the scene, as the smoke and flames began to spread across the hillside. In fact, there's so much smoke it can be seen rising above Mount Jumbo to the west.

Units are still arriving on scene and at this point there are no reports of any structures being threatened by the blaze.

We'll bring you more on the developing story as additional information becomes available.

Contact Dennis Bragg