Single Publication

NORTHERN ROCKIES TEAM 6

INCIDENT COMMANDER: Paul Roose

East Fork Fire

Kootenai National Forest/Flathead National Forest

Fire Information  406-285-8634  Eastforkfireinfo@gmail.com

August 29, 2023

Location: 12 miles south of Trego, MT

Start Date: 7/30/2023

Cause: Lightning

Size: 5,112 acres

Containment: 15%

Total Personnel: 621

Engines: 15

Hand Crews: 12

Helicopters: 2

Yesterday’s Events: The success of burning operations was mixed on Monday. On the south side of the fire fuels were not receptive southeast of Advent Creek. However, to the north, above the 3710 road, burning was successful. On other areas of the fire, firefighters continued to establish direct line in rough country. Near the Advent Creek area, crews did reconnaissance to prepare for heavy equipment work tomorrow. All around the fire, teams worked with a sense of urgency to complete tasks in advance of the coming weather. Night Operations burned until 1 am and elsewhere crews spent the night monitoring the fire, stacking logs, and chipping brush.

Plans for Today: Burning operations should continue by the 3710 Road, and possibly on the south side, if conditions align to carry fire safely. As heavy machinery frees up, it will shift south to construct line with large machinery in the Advent Creek area. In the afternoon, crews will prepare for the change in weather which will bring significant wind gusts and thunderstorms as part of the advancing cold front. Safety is of the highest concern during these winds and everyone will be especially aware of the very real possibility of falling trees and egress issues.

Weather Update: This is the last day of hot, dry weather as a Pacific system moves in around 6pm bringing winds, thunderstorms, clouds, rain, and colder temperatures. This system is seen as another season-slowing event which will again leave good opportunities for firefighters after it passes.

Evacuations: Some communities remain in a Pre-Evacuation Warning. Residents may return to their homes under a Pre-Evacuation Warning, but may need to leave again on short notice. For more information, go to the Lincoln County and Flathead County Sheriff’s Department Facebook pages.

Public Meetings: No public meetings are scheduled at this time, though fire personnel are available to address questions or concerns via the email address and telephone number noted above.

See the daily operations update video here: https://youtu.be/SBjAeo_dyVk