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 30, 2023

Location: 12 miles south of Trego, MT

Start Date: 7/30/2023

Cause: Lightning

Size: 5,162 acres

Containment: 20%

Total Personnel: 662

Engines: 15

Hand Crews: 12

Helicopters: 2

Yesterday’s Events: Tuesday's strategy was tailored to the final day of hot, dry conditions in advance of an incoming cold front. Crews performed successful back burning operations on the north and south side of the fire to remove fuels between the fire and the mechanically created fireline. Ground crews spent time mopping up these areas before winds were anticipated to hit the fire at around 6pm. (as seen in picture) These back burns along with some continued creeping in the interior of the fire are what has largely contributed to the increase in acreage.There were a few areas that had increased fire activity and fire fighters observed single trees torching. This fire behavior was anticipated and crews were prepared. The line of thunderstorms on the leading edge of the cold front did not materialize and evening wind gusts were more moderate on the fire.  Heavy rains moved over the fire around midnight.

Plans for Today:  With the wet weather, Wednesday's approach will focus on safety, rehabilitation and repair. All crews have been advised to use extra caution in the inclement weather and take into account falling tree hazards. The weather will be monitored closely and firefighters will look for breaks in the rain to remove downed trees and work on the line. This is another season slowing event and it will likely be 5-7 days before we see any real fire activity once the weather gets hot and dry again.

Weather Update: Up to 1/2 inch of rain fell overnight and the incident meteorologist anticipates another ½ to 1 inch of rain throughout the day. We will see showers, possible afternoon wind gusts and cooler temperatures. The temperature should be steady around 50 degrees. The low pressure system should hover in the area for at least the day. 

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.