Single Publication

Start Date & Location: July 22, 2024, Butler Creek Road, Missoula
Cause: Human caused          Size: 307 acres          Containment: 80%

KEY MESSAGE
A Red Flag Warning remains in effect for the Missoula area on Thursday, July 25, from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Firefighters remain vigilant as these conditions can create rapidly changing fire behavior. Stage II fire restrictions are in effect, prohibiting all open burning and campfires. Please go to MTfireinfo.org to view fire restrictions in your area. 

CURRENT STATUS
Containment on the Butler Creek fire is now at 80% and suppression efforts continue. Containment is a measure of confidence that the control line around the fire will effectively halt fire spread. The incident has transitioned to a local Type 4 organization. The crew managed to stay on top of fire suppression during Wednesday evening’s intense winds and thunderstorm. There are currently 16 personnel on the fire, including 4 engines, 1 dozer, and 1 skidgen. Crews will continue “mop up” operations along the fire perimeter, systematically patrolling to detect and extinguish any residual heat sources. Public and firefighter safety remains the top priority for operations. Crews may remain in the area for many days to come completing their mop up operations. 

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR
A Red Flag Warning indicates extreme fire danger due to warm temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds. Thursday’s forecast is sunny conditions, with a high near 86 degrees. Winds will be 16 to 21 mph from the west, reaching up to 33 mph this evening. Humidity is in the low teens. Friday will be sunny and 85 degrees with light winds from the west. Hazy conditions persist. Current air quality can be found at fire.airnow.gov.

EVACUATIONS AND CLOSURES
All evacuation orders, warning, and road closures in the area have been lifted. Residents should remain vigilant and sign up for emergency alerts at Smart911.com. Monitor the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office for evacuation updates and information as conditions can change rapidly, especially with the Red Flag weather conditions. Drivers are urged to reduce speed around the fire area to eliminate conflicts with emergency traffic. 

This will be the last Daily Fire Update unless conditions change.