Single Publication

KEY MESSAGE
Red Flag Warning issued for the Missoula area starting at noon 07/25/24 Continues on until 2100 on 07/25/2024.

CURRENT STATUS
Following strong winds over the fire area last night, crews will focus on assessing the fire and patrolling for spots or flair ups outside the fire perimeter. An infrared equipped UAS (drone) will be utilized to aid in the search for any new areas of heat. Presently there is line around the perimeter of the fire that is secured with hand dug lines, machinery and cold burned areas. Divisions are well prepared to prevent breach of the line, focusing on the northeastern side of the fire. In the southeastern section of the fire, crews have halted progression of the fire with special focus on the values at risk and connecting lines to the Northeast. The I-90 corridor remains a vital value and is the priority for the heavy equipment and air attack on the east side.

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR
Hot and dry conditions combined with gusty westerly winds and afternoon storms create critical fire weather conditions. Winds are forecasted to increase over the fire area over the next 24 to 36 hours. As a result of these conditions the fire location is under a Red Flag Warning by the National Weather Service starting at noon on Wednesday. There were record breaking wind speeds recorded for the Missoula area. Mount Sentinel was showing gusts of 109 mph. The fire area received up to ¼ inch of rain.

CLOSURES
Lower Miller Creek Road is closed from debris due to the storm. A temporary flight restriction is in effect over the fire area. An area and road closure around the fire is in effect due to hazardous conditions resulting from fire activity. Stage II fire restrictions are in effect in the area. Specific closure information and maps are posted on InciWeb at https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/mtlnf-miller-peak-fire and https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/lolo/alerts-notices as they are implemented.