US: Emergency crews responding to multiple wildfires in Montana as of Aug. 9 /update 1

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain several wildfires burning in different parts of Montana as of Aug. 9. The following wildfires continue to cause evacuation and transport disruptions:

West Lolo Complex
The West Lolo Complex consists of multiple fires, of which the main one is the Thorne Creek Fire. The complex is burning in Sanders County and is approximately 100 km (62 miles) northwest of Missoula, and 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Kalispell. The complex is 8,890 hectares (21,967 acres) in size and is 15-percent contained as of Aug. 9. More than 418 personnel are currently on-site battling the blaze. Authorities estimate that they would fully contain the fire by Oct. 31. Evacuation warnings and transport disruptions are in place and can be found here.

Divide Complex
The Divide Complex consists of the American Fork Fire, Balsinger Fire, Woods Creek Fire, and Ellis fire. The American Fork Fire is affecting Meagher and Sweet Grass counties and is approximately 85 km (53 miles) northeast of Bozeman. The fire is 7,700 hectares (19,028 acres) and is 10-percent contained as of Aug. 9. More than 82 personnel are currently on-site battling the blaze. Authorities estimate that they would fully contain the fire by Oct. 15. Evacuation warnings and transport disruptions are in place and can be found here. The Balsinger Fire is affecting Cascade County and is approximately 60 km (37 miles) southeast of Great Falls. The fire is 3,980 hectares (9,834 acres) and is 45-percent contained as of Aug. 9. More than 301 personnel are currently on-site battling the blaze. Authorities estimate that they would fully contain the fire by Oct. 29. Evacuation warnings and transport disruptions are in place and can be found here. The Woods Creek Fire is affecting Broadwater County and is approximately 50 km (31 miles) east of Helena. The fire is 18,450 hectares (45,590 acres) and is 3-percent contained as of Aug. 9. More than 405 personnel are currently on-site battling the blaze. Authorities estimate that they would fully contain the fire by Oct. 31. Evacuation warnings and transport disruptions are in place and can be found here.

South Yaak Fire
The South Yaak Fire is burning in Lincoln County and is approximately 115 km (71 miles) east of Whitefish. The fire is 4,204 hectares (10,388 acres) and is 34-percent contained as of Aug. 9. More than 211 personnel are currently on-site battling the blaze. Authorities estimate that they would fully contain the fire by Sept. 30. Transport disruptions are in place and can be found here.

Transport
Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. Traffic flows could also be disrupted during re-entry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.

Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.