Single Publication

Blacktail Canyon Fire Update

Incident Commander J. Willoughby
Location:  southeast of Butte, MT between Interstate 90 and Highway 2
Start Date: 7/19/2024 
Cause: Undetermined
Size: 80 acres 
Resources on Site:  4 engines, 1 helicopter, 2 type 1 “hotshot” hand crews, 3 type 2 hand crews
Total Personnel Assigned:  152
Containment:  50%

KEY MESSAGES:  
The evacuation warning issued by Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement Department has been rescinded.

Winds associated with passing thunderstorms pose a major safety hazard due to the high density of “snags” and falling trees. Additionally, the proximity of the fire location to recreation sites such as the Continental Divide Trail and the Silver Bow Archery Range in Thompson Park presents a further need for public awareness. The public is advised to stay out of these areas, as crews and helicopters continue their work. Ensuring firefighter safety and protecting life and property are of the utmost importance during any incident.

CURRENT STATUS/PLANNED ACTIONS: 
Previously constructed firelines held, despite the gusty winds and Red Flag conditions. The acreage remains at 80. Yesterday, crews worked in the morning until the predicted high winds materialized, forcing the crews off the fireline and back to fire camp due to the snag and falling tree hazards. Firefighting efforts resulted in securing sections of the fire edges, 3 chains (198 feet) into the interior.

Fire managers are calling the fire 50% contained. Containment of a fire implies there are secure firelines around the perimeter, directly next to the edge where the fire burned. As the crews progress around the entire fire perimeter with “mop-up” and extinguish all residual heat interior to the fire edge, the containment percentage will increase.

Infrared mapping identified an area of residual heat on the eastern flank, given the winds yesterday. Crews will address this section today as they continue with “mop-up” operations, as allowed by weather conditions and subsequent impacts of the gusty winds. Engine crews and helicopters will be available for initial attack of new fires, given the recent lightning and several smoke reports in the area.

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR:
Fire behavior was minimal yesterday, with smoldering observed. Little to no smoke was visible.

A cold front moved through the fire area yesterday. Mostly clear skies will dominate the forecast today. West winds will increase in the afternoon hours today and tomorrow. Relative humidity will remain low, with readings in the teens. A slight chance for showers enters the area on Saturday.