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Conditions, including dry fuels and gusty winds, precluded firefighters from implementing any strategic firing operations today.

Firefighters experienced extreme fire behavior, especially in the timbered areas with a heavy concentration of "dead and downed" trees. The fire progressed east across Sawlog Creek, toward the fire footprint from the 2021 Alder Fire. The fire footprint from the 2021 Christensen Fire lies to the south.

The crews, assisted by the helicopter, attacked the fire until incoming weather prompted them to disengage late this afternoon. Winds up to 40-50 mph associated with passing thunderstorms resulted in gusty outflow winds and downdrafts, which present dangerous conditions for firefighters. Zero precipitation fell over the fire area.

Fire officials characterized the fire behavior as "very uncommon" for this time of year. Given these extremely dry fuel conditions, the potential for fire growth is high.  Today's acreage growth could not be determined exactly, as firefighters were unable to see the main fire. An infrared mapping flight has been ordered for the overnight hours.

‼ For public safety reasons, the Bureau of Land Management has issued a temporary closure for the Sawlog dispersed camping area, located at the Big Hole River ford site.

Fire investigators will continue their search to determine the fire's cause.