Single Publication

Key Message 

Command of the Long Tom Fire has been transferred back to the DNRC Anaconda Unit as of 12 p.m. Thursday, September 12. The fire will remain in patrol status and be monitored until the end of the season. 

There will continue to be smoke in the area; please do not report it. For any questions, please call the DNRC Anaconda Unit office at 406-563-6078

Current Status

The fire is burning in a remote, difficult-to-access location in tall grass and timber in the Mount Haggin Wildlife Management Area in Butte-Silver Bow County and Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Due to adverse weather conditions and associated risks, fire managers have decided to withdraw firefighters from the fire line and place the fire in patrol status to prioritize human safety.

The fire’s size has been reduced from its initial estimate of 110 acres to 57 acres following accurate mapping data from personnel on foot. 

Weather and Fire Behavior

The fire area received up to half an inch of rain on Wednesday. The forecast predicts rain and snow showers at the fire’s location of 6,500 feet. Temperatures are expected to range from low 30s to mid-50s degrees. These conditions, while creating hazardous terrain and conditions for firefighters to engage to fire, will moderate fire behavior and limit growth. Another cold weather system is anticipated to move through the area on Monday, September 16, further moderating fire behavior.

Evacuations And Closures

There are no evacuations or road closures issued at this time. However, fire managers urge the public please stay out of the fire area due to unpredictable fire activity. 

For more information on fires across the state and prevention tips, visit www.MTFireInfo.org.