Multiple Red Flag Days on The Horizon for The Millie Fire
Incident: Millie Fire Wildfire
Released: 9/9/2012
This morning crews heard from Incident Meteorologist Dan Borsum; "We are going to be hot and dry for the next 72 hours. Isolated thunderstorms with cumulus clouds will bring winds this afternoon which may reach 30 miles per hour, and possible gusts up to 50 miles per hour on ridgetops". This significant weather event will increase fire activity and Fire Operations are taking appropriate actions in anticipation of predicted events.
The firefighter's efforts to date are paying off with the Millie Fire now holding at 10,205 acres and 40 percent contained. The crews will progress around the fire perimeter patrolling, cooling hot spots and making preparations as they can.
Two Sikorsky S-61and one CH-54 Skycrane helicopters will continue to do water drops in the morning with bucket capacities of up to 600 gallons on each drop. The medium and light helicopters will support crews by hauling equipment and supplies. Aerial work will continue unless wind conditions make flying unsafe and ineffective.
While many Gallatin National Forest users are eager to get back into the forest, closures need to remain in effect for now. Conditions remain unsafe for visitors. Roads and trails within the fire area are receiving heavy use by fire vehicles and crews. High winds will cause weakened and burned trees to topple.
The public should recognize that with multiple area closures in place, there may be additional hunters in areas they normally would not be concentrated.
Stage 1 fire restrictions remain in effect outside of designated wilderness areas. Use extreme caution when using campfires and be sure the fires are dead out before leaving the area.
Motorists are again reminded of increased fire traffic along U.S. Highway 191 and to use caution around the fire area this weekend.
There are 545 personnel assigned to the incident. Resources include four helicopters, 15 crews, 12 engines, seven dozers and one water tender.
Additional Fire Information meetings have yet to be scheduled. For more information, please call 877-405-0033 or 877-390-4323.
