Fire danger extreme, Stage II restrictions implemented
The Sheep Fire torches trees as it works its way down the slope toward the Goat Lick just outside of Glacier National Park in this file photo.
Following weeks hot, dry weather conditions the fire danger is now listed as extreme.
Stage II fire restrictions are also in effect across most of Northwest Montana banning all open burning, including campfires, on private land and restricting vehicles to designated roads and trails.
Flathead Area Interagency Fire managers on Sunday raised the fire danger to extreme.
“Northwest Montana is currently experiencing critical fire conditions including extremely dry forest fuels; forecasted temperatures above normal accompanied by low humidity, wind, and minimal precipitation; and competition for firefighting resources as many fires continue to burn across the State and the West,” officials said in a release.
There have been 237 wildfire incidents reported in the Flathead since July 1.
The forecast through the beginning of next week is calling for highs in the high 80s and low 90s with little chance for precipitation, according to the National Weather Service in Missoula.
Flathead County commissioners voted last week to place the county under Stage II restrictions. The restrictions apply to any lands outside designated city limits, regardless of ownership.
Warning that it may have to also move to Stage II restrictions, the city of Whitefish on Friday issued a fire advisory.
The fire advisory is meant to alert Whitefish residents and business of the current fire conditions and that care is needed for recreational fires, use of motorized vehicles and smoking, the city said in its notice.
“Please use caution and have readily available means of extinguishment, such as a fire extinguisher or garden hose,” the city said.
Glacier National Park, Flathead National Forest and state land are also under Stage II restrictions.
Under the restrictions, smoking is not allowed unless within an enclosed vehicle, building or developed recreation site. Equipment operation involving internal combustion engines is prohibited from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Devices fueled by liquid petroleum are allowed, but should be used in an area cleared of flammable material within three feet of the device. Generators with an approved spark arresting device can also be used when flammable material has been removed within three feet. Barbecue grills can also be used again provided if the area has been cleared and a water hose is nearby.
Campfires are also banned on Weyerhaeuser property lands in Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, Missoula, Sanders and Ravalli counties due to the high fire danger.
Gov. Steve Bullock on July 23 declared a fire emergency in Montana.
“Montana is facing extreme fire conditions. Our top priority is ensuring the safety of Montanans, their property, and our communities. This declaration provides additional resources to the brave men and women fighting these fires,” Bullock said of the declaration. “As firefighters battle blazes across the state, Montanans must stay vigilant about active fires in their area, obey any evacuation orders, and prevent any actions that might spark new fires.”
The declaration allows Bullock to mobilize additional state resources and the Montana National Guard to combat the fires.
For more information on fire restrictions, visit https://firerestrictions.us/mt/.