Pattengail Creek Fire Update 8/12/07
Incident: Pattengail Creek Wildland Fire
Released: 8/12/2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Joe Colwell, Information
Date: Sunday, August 12, 2007 Phone: 406-832-3178 (x211)
Fire Start: July 13, 2007
Cause: Lightning
Total Acres: 4,064 acres
Containment: 25%
Location: Fire start was 11 miles southwest of Wise River, in the west Pioneer Mountains, about 40 miles southwest of Butte, MT
Portions of the fire heated up on Saturday with short multiple tree torching occurring in the interior of the fire and some new spot fires. The resulting smoke plume could be seen from Wise River and the surrounding areas. Tie Creek Road remains closed due to the heavy equipment being used in the area to construct a contingency line. Structure protection measures are continuing. Additional firefighting crews are expected today to assist with the suppression activities.
Weather: A front is expected to move through the area today bringing southwest winds 15-25MPH gusting to 35. As a result, red flag warnings are posted from noon to 9PM today. Isolated thunderstorms are a possibility this afternoon.
Public Meeting: The next public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 15, at the Wise River Community Center, at 7:30 PM.
Fire Restrictions and Closures: Stage 2 fire restrictions are in place on public lands in southwest Montana. Tie Creek road is closed due to construction of a contingency line. For public safety, the north end of the west Pioneer Mountains has an Area Closure. Check http://www.inciweb.org/ or www.fs.fed.us/r1/bdnf/ for more detailed information.
