Fire restrictions lifted in Whitefish, caution is advised

Whitefish joined Flathead County and other federal and state agencies last week in lifting stage 1 fire restrictions that prohibit campfires.

Whitefish Fire Chief Cole Hadley said he made the decision due to the amount of precipitation received in recent weeks. 

Following rainfall and lower temperatures across the valley, Whitefish, Flathead County, Flathead National Forest, Flathead County and Glacier National Park lifted stage I fire restrictions. West Glacier had received 1.25 inches of rainfall through the first week of August, well ahead of the normal amount of 0.25. 

Federal and state jurisdictions remaining under stage I restrictions include the Kootenai National Forest, including Rexford, Fortine, Three Rivers, Libby and Cabinet Ranger Districts. 

Interagency fire managers plan to meet to make recommendations on fire restrictions. 

For current wildfire and restrictions information, visit mtfireinfo.org.