Single Publication

Banana Lake Fire Update

                Start Date & Location: May 31, 2024    4 miles north of Plains, MT
Cause: Unknown, under investigation             Size: 850 acres                Containment: 0%
 

KEY MESSAGE
Speed reductions are in effect along portions of Highway 28. Drivers are urged to slow down and use caution when traveling near the fire area to eliminate conflicts with emergency response traffic.

The fire area remains closed to all non-emergency personnel. Access is restricted to ensure the safety of both the public and firefighting crews operating in the area.

CURRENT STATUS AND PLANNED ACTIONS
The Western Montana Incident Management Team, under the leadership of Incident Commander Ken Parks, assumed command of the Banana Lake Fire at 6:00 AM on June 2, 2025.

The fire is being managed under a full suppression strategy. Crews will engage in direct attack operations where it is safe to do so, while also assessing opportunities to secure existing fireline and construct additional line where needed. Fire activity is currently most pronounced on the northern and eastern flanks, where short-range spotting has been observed. Firefighters will prioritize locating and extinguishing any spot fires that occur outside the main perimeter.

To the north, crews will construct handline to connect segments of previously established dozer line. Challenging terrain and hazard trees pose safety concerns for ground personnel.

Helicopters will support ground operations by conducting bucket drops on areas of heat along the fire’s edge.

Crews remain prepared to respond to any new fire starts within the Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) area and in zones adjacent to the current fire perimeter.

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR
Fire activity is expected to moderate today, with areas of creeping fire and the potential for short-range spotting and group tree torching.
Skies will be partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from 62 to 67°F across the fire area. Northwest winds will range from 6 to 10 mph. The chance of wetting rain remains low at 10%. Relative humidity values are expected to drop into the low to mid-20% range during the day.
Tonight, wind gusts could exceed 20 mph through approximately 11:00 PM. Overnight, relative humidity will improve, with recoveries expected above 30%.

EVACUATIONS AND CLOSURES
There are no evacuation or closures related to the Banana Lake Fire at this time.