Single Publication

Quartz Fire Update 
Tuesday, August 30, 9:30 am 

National Park Service  
Glacier National Park 
Incident Commander: M. Lewelling 

Fire Information Email: glac_fire_line@nps.gov 
Fire Information Recording: 406-206-6099 
Fire Information Office: 406-206-5272 (8 am to 6 pm) 

Updated mapping shows no growth on Quartz Fire

Current Situation: The Quartz Fire was again mapped at 1698 acres during an infrared flight last night which showed no growth and only isolated heat sources. Aerial observations of the fire show a mixed severity burn pattern, meaning that areas within the fire perimeter burned at different intensities. The Quartz Fire so far has resulted in some understory burning in less intense areas, and other areas with a higher burn intensity where most of the mature trees were burned. 

The warmer and drier temperatures on Monday led to a slight increase in smoke observed over the fire. With today’s weather continuing the trend of warming and drying, light smoke may be visible over the fire area again today. 

No activity was observed on potential new starts in Glacier National Park from the past week. Initial attack resources will continue patrolling both sides of the park looking for any activity from these areas and potential new fires. 

Weather: The Quartz Fire area will be slightly warmer and drier today than on Monday. Temperatures will be 73°-83° on ridges and minimum relative humidity will be 22-32%.  Winds are expected to be 5-10 mph from the southwest. The trend towards warmer and drier weather may lead to a slight increase in fire behavior during the warmest part of the afternoon. Some smoke may be visible if fire activity increases.

Closures: Glacier National Park has enacted a Closure Order for the areas, campgrounds, and trails within the Quartz Lake drainage from the Continental Divide to the Inside North Fork Road for the protection of park visitors, employees, and natural resources. This includes the Quartz Lake Loop trails starting from just south of Bowman Lake toward Quartz Lake, as well as the Quartz Lake and Lower Quartz Lake Wilderness Campgrounds. A map of the closure is available on InciWeb. 

Fire Restrictions: The fire danger rating in Glacier National Park is currently Very High. All park visitors are reminded that campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings or grates and should be kept small. Never leave a fire unattended and drown any campfire with water until cold to the touch before leaving it.

Air Quality: National air quality and smoke conditions can be monitored at https://fire.airnow.gov/. Visibility in different parts of Glacier National Park can vary from hour to hour, depending on fire and wind conditions both locally and throughout the west. Check the park’s webcams at https://www.nps.gov/glac/learn/photosmultimedia/webcams.htm for current views.

Quartz Fire Statistics:
Size: Approximately 1698 acres
Total Personnel: 35
Start Date: Sunday, August 14, 2022
Containment: 0%
Cause: Lightning
Location: 25 miles north of West Glacier