HAMILTON — Officials are providing an update on several fires that are burning in Ravalli County.
- Dominic Point Fire: Located in the Sapphire Mountains, 8 miles east of Corvallis, the fire has grown to approximately 28 acres. 115 firefighters are currently assigned to the fire, including 4 crews, 4 engines, 4 water tenders, and 2 helicopters. Fire crews constructed handline around the main fire perimeter and handline around the 80 spot fires that resulted from Sunday’s high winds blowing embers off the main fire. Willow Mountain Road (Forest Road #1302) is currently closed.
- Observation Point Fire: Located 10 miles south of Hamilton in Lost Horse Canyon.Fire, activity has been minimal. The fire has not grown and remains at 105 acres in size and firefighters are continuing mop-up efforts. Containment of the blaze has increased to 87%. There are 45 people assigned to the fire.
Fires Contained or declared Out in the last 24 hours
- Piquett Creek: Located 9.5 miles southwest of Connor, was caused by a lightning strike. Initial Attack resources included 2 Initial Attack Modules. Firefighters completed fire line around the fire and continue to mop up. It was declared contained.
- Blacktail Fire: Located 3.5 miles southwest of Darby was less than an acre in size and caused by lightning. Initial Attack resources included 1 Type 6 Engine. The fire was declared out.
- Buckhorn Saddle Fire: Located 9 miles east of Grantsdale off Skalkaho Highway. Declared out.
- Black Bear Fire: Located 10 miles east of Grantsdale off Skalkaho Highway. Declared out.
- Switchback Fire: Located in the Sapphire Mountains, 13 miles east of Darby. Fire is contained.
- Pan Lake Fire: Located on the West Fork Ranger District, 42 miles southwest of Connor. The fire was 2 acres in size. Initial attack resources included 10 firefighters. Fire was declared out.
The Bitterroot National Forest reports there have been more than 800 confirmed lightning strikes on the forest last week.
