Below is a press release from CSKT Division of Fire in regard to the wildfires burning on the Flathead Indian Reservation.
August 1st Morning Update
More crews and equipment have arrived on the reservation in support of fire suppression efforts and more.
Many of the fires have seen extreme growth with the low fuels moisture and high temperatures.
A Complex Incident Management Team will arrive tonight to take command of multiple fires, bringing more support staff for the increase in fire resources arriving.
Mapping of the fires has been postponed because of limited visibility from smoke.
Fire restrictions are in place with no campfires allowed within the boundaries of the reservation.
Niarada – Eleven miles west of Elmo, MT, estimated to be over 5,000 acres. Smokejumpers, a 20 person crew, single-engine air tankers, helicopters and heavy equipment have been responding to this fire. The fire is burning in very steep and rugged terrain heading north and east. Winds coming from the west/southwest continue to push the fire north/northeast. The fire had four single-engine air tankers, very large air tanker, five large air tankers, supporting ground resources all day.
Big Knife - East of Arlee, MT, 1,991 acres. Over 100 fire fighters and overhead have made progress on a containment line on the western edge. This line is holding well. A Complex Incident Management Team will assume command of this fire Aug. 2.
Middle Ridge - Southwest of Sloan’s Bridge, estimated over 9,100 acres. Fire fighters and heavy equipment with limited air support have managed to put in containment line and secure the south end of the fire in the area of Little Bitteroot Road. The north end of the fire is the most active and the priority focus today.
Communication Butte - North of Dixon, Mont. in Ferry Basin, approximately 1,500 acres. The fire is burning in grass and timber, crews have made a lot of progress putting in containment lines today. The terrain is very steep and difficult to access. It did jump the Flathead River last night. Some air support.
Mill Pocket – West of Niarada, 600 acres. Dozers are assigned and it has been receiving air support. The fire is progressing east and has moved to the canal.
Evacuation Information
Currently, there are NO new evacuations, evacuations in Moiese community have been lifted, Browns Meadows in Flathead County is still under evacuation orders. The public is encouraged to be prepared if they are asked to leave by emergency responders.
Fire Restrictions – No campfires are allowed, no smoking outside of vehicles, no operating combustible engines between 1pm-1am, no operating vehicles off designated roads and trails.
Re-Opened
The Bison Range is open with regular operating hours.
Highway 28 is open with speed restrictions. Advising the public to be prepared for potential stops and long wait times.
