Harley Creek Fire Fact Sheet
Incident: Harley Creek Wildland Fire
Released: 7/28/2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Date: July 28, 2008
Contact: Erin Fryer Phone: 406-366-5900
Fire Name: Harley Creek Fire Start: July 26, 2008
Cause: Lightning Total Acres: 167 acres
Containment: 15 percent Control: 0 percent
Fire History: The Harley Creek Fire is located two to two and a half miles west of Neihart, Montana on the Belt Creek Ranger District of the Lewis and Clark National Forest. The fire, which was spotted on July 26, is estimated to have reached 167 acres. Crews worked along with two dozers to clear fireline along the north perimeter of the fire yesterday. The crew's efforts were supported by helicopters performing bucket work, as well as several air tankers and an air attack plane dropping retardant.
Today's Operations: Firefighters will work today to reinforce fireline on the northern flank. Due to the steep rocky terrain; additional personnel will scout the eastern and western flanks of the fire for the most effective tactal operations while providing for the safety of the firefighters. All firefighting efforts will be supported by air resources consisting of three helicopters and an air attack plane.
Personnel on Fire: There are approximately 150 firefighters on the incident at this time. These crews include 2 hotshot crews, 3 Type 2 hand crews, a helitack module, and various support personnel.
Equipment on Fire: One Type 3 helicopter, two Type 2 helicopters and one air attack plane.
Closures: For public and firefighter safety the Belt Creek Ranger District has implemented the following Temporary Road Closures. Forest road 839 is closed from its junction with Forest road 6378 north; Forest roads 839 and 253 are closed from Iron Mines Park south; Belt Park road is closed from its junction with Harley Creek Road/ Forest road 834; Harley Creek Road/ Forest road 834 is closed in its entirety; Forest road 586 is closed from Onion Park north.
Fire Weather: Today's fire weather is calling for mostly sunny skies. Temperatures should range from 73 to 83 degrees. Relative humidity levels are expected to range from between 18 and 25 percent. Winds should be light from the west at 5 to 10 miles per hour.
Special Remarks: As temperatures are rising the forest is beginning to dry out quickly. Please be careful while recreating and remember to completely extinguish all campfires.
Folks can also check out the Inciweb site at http://www.inciweb.org/ for more information.
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