Pattengail Creek Fire Update 8/13
Incident: Pattengail Creek Wildland Fire
Released: 8/13/2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Joe Colwell, Information
Date: Monday, August 13, 2007 Phone: 406-832-3178 (x211)
Fire Start: July 13, 2007
Cause: Lightning
Total Acres: 5,000 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
As expected, the Pattengail Creek fire was very active Sunday as strong winds caused significant burning on several fronts of the fire. Smoke columns were visible on both eastern and western ends of the 6 mile long fire. Although the fire expanded by almost 1,000 acres, much of the burning did not cause concern for fire managers. The fire did not come close to the management action points previously established by fire officials. These points would cause changes in fire suppression tactics or evacuations. Areas burned Sunday tended to fill in previously burned fingers and odd shaped fire perimeters. There was no sustained advance in any one direction. Fire growth was more wind driven and topography influenced. Spot fires were numerous, although fire officials felt they could contain many of these before active burning starts again Monday. Some additional crews were available for suppression efforts. There were 3 single engine air tanker retardant drops, but this was discontinued due to safety concerns and ineffectiveness due to the winds.
Tie Creek Road remains closed due to the heavy equipment being used in the area to construct a contingency line. Additional equipment has been ordered to speed the construction. Structure protection measures are continuing.
Weather: Winds are not expected to be as strong as Sunday, but temperatures and humidity will once again provide active burning conditions.
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.
