LIBBY – The Gold Hill fire burning 13 miles north of Libby has now grown to an estimated 1,920 acres.
Pre-evacuation notices remain in effect for residents between mile marker 11 and mile marker 13 on the Pipe Creek Road. Structure protection crews are be scouting and preparing homes in case the Gold Hill fire does move into the area.
An informal community meeting hosted by the Type 3 Incident Management Team will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday in the Ponderosa Room at 952 E. Spruce Street in Libby.
The fire has crossed part of the West Branch of Noisy Creek and crews are preparing for firing operations to protect structures and private commercial timber property.
There are now 171 people assigned to fight the lightning-sparked blaze which was 1% contained as of Thursday morning.
