Emergency shelters open in Flathead, Lake Counties for wildfire evacuees

An emergency shelter for people displaced by wildfires burning in Flathead County opened Sunday night in Kalispell.

Flathead County requested assistance from American Red Cross to operate the shelter at Canvas Church, 255 Summit Ridge Drive, Kalispell.

According to officials with the Flathead County Office of Emergency Services, people displaced by evacuations and in need of lodging should go directly to the church. If volunteers are not readily available, people should call 406-215-1514 and ask for assistance.

Multiple wildfires are active across Northwest Montana. The largest in Flathead County is the Niarada Fire west of Elmo. It was estimated at 1,000 acres Monday morning.

Lake County and the Flathead Reservation are also affected by numerous wildfires, including the Big Knife Fire east of Arlee, the Middle Ridge Fire and the Communication Butte Fire near Dixon.

Ronan High School is open to evacuees from wildfires in Lake County. This high school is located at 130 3rd Ave. NW in Ronan. The Arlee Community Center at 34806 Pow Wow Road is also serving as am emergency shelter.

Those who plan to use the emergency shelter are advised to take any necessary medications, cell phone chargers, toiletries, flashlights, bedding and anything else they need in order to be comfortable.