Single Publication

Key Message 

The Montana DNRC County Assist Team, led by Incident Commander David Hamilton transitioned command of the Short Draw Fire yesterday from local resources. The primary objectives of fire mitigation efforts are to protect homes, grazing rangelands and to keep the fire inside the smallest footprint possible. Fire crews will directly engage the fire when conditions allow to minimize damage to these areas, ensuring the safety of human life and preservation of grazing lands. 

Current Status 

On-the-ground and aerial mapping conducted yesterday provided a more accurate perimeter of the fire area providing a better opportunity for crews to directly attack the fire. 

Today, hand crews, engine crews and dozers are reinforcing control lines around the north, east and west sides of the fire perimeter. Crews will be patrolling and working into the interior from these lines to suppress hotspots ensuring the fire doesn’t cross them. Helicopters and aircraft have been vital in keeping the edge of the fire from spreading by providing water bucket and retardant drops. The south and southwestern edges of the fire in Wyoming remain active, and structure protection efforts are ongoing.  

Weather and Fire Behavior 

Saturday will have light winds, low humidity and temperatures in the mid to low 80s. Ridgetop winds will be stronger in the morning and decrease throughout the day. Saturday night will bring light winds shifting clockwise from west to north to southeast, with only moderate relative humidity recovery. On Sunday, expect warm, dry conditions with light winds out of the south to southeast. Thermal gusts to 20 mph are possible during the day both Saturday and Sunday. 

The fire, initially spread by strong winds, has left many unburned pockets of green vegetation within its interior. These isolated fuel pockets are expected to burn and torch in the coming days due to changing winds. 

Evacuations And Closures 

Powder River County, Montana, has issued an Evacuation Warning for residents east of Buffalo Cr all the way to Butte Cr Rd, from the state line to the Powder River. 

Campbell County, Wyoming, has issued an Evacuation Notice for the residents of Border Line Estates/Ranchets are advised to evacuate.  

There is a temporary flight restriction (TFR) over the fire area. For firefighter safety, please do not fly unmanned aerial systems in the area.