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Banana Lake Fire
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- Nick HollowayPhone:406-370-9381
Banana Lake Fire Update 06-03-2025
Banana Lake Fire
Publication Type: News - 06/03/2025 - 11:31
Banana Lake Fire
June 3, 2024
Start Date & Location: May 31, 2024 4 miles north of Plains, MT
Cause: Unknown, under investigation Size: 913 acres Containment: 15%
Personnel: 194 Engines: 14 Helicopters: 2 Tenders: 10
KEY MESSAGE
Speed reductions are in effect along portions of Highway 28. Drivers are urged to slow down and use extra caution when traveling near the fire area to eliminate conflicts with emergency response traffic.
The public is also asked to stay clear of the fire area and not fly drones, as they pose a serious hazard to firefighting aircraft.
CURRENT STATUS AND PLANNED ACTIONS
The Banana Lake Fire remains under a full suppression strategy. Yesterday, crews identified and extinguished several spot fires north of the perimeter. Spot fires remain a key concern, and firefighters will continue patrolling the area today, cold trailing and extinguishing any heat sources to prevent rekindling.
On the northeast and southeast flanks, crews are mopping up along established fireline and targeting remaining hot spots. To the north, handline construction is in progress to tie into existing dozer line, though steep terrain and hazard trees continue to pose safety challenges.
Along the southeast and southern flanks, crews are constructing a combination of direct and indirect line, supported by dozers and engines. Mop-up operations are progressing up to two chains (approximately 132 feet) into the fire’s interior.
Helicopters are conducting targeted bucket drops along the northern flank to cool hot spots and support ground crews with direct engagement. Resources remain positioned to respond to any new fire starts in or near the fire area.
WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR
Today’s fire activity is expected to be moderate, with low-intensity surface fire and the potential for single tree torching and a spotting in some areas.
Northwesterly winds are expected this afternoon, shifting to the northeast by early evening. Overnight temperatures will be cooler than recent nights, dipping into the upper 30s. Gusts over 20 mph are possible along ridgetops. Relative humidity will range between 19% and 24%.
EVACUATIONS AND CLOSURES
There are no evacuation or closures related to the Banana Lake Fire at this time.
