SWAN VALLEY – Monday night's storm system that passed through NW Montana produced thunderstorms that sparked several new wildfire starts on the Flathead National Forest in the Swan Lake Ranger District.
The Cold Lake fire is located on the ridge just south of Lower Cold Lake and is approximately 10 acres in size, in sub-alpine fir, and has several small spot fires. There are 7 smoke jumpers and a 21 person Initial Attack crew assigned to the fire. A Type 1 helicopter and a Type 3 helicopter have been doing bucket work to help suppression efforts.
The Jim Lake fire is located about ¾ of a mile east of Jim Lake and is 1 acre in size. There are 13 firefighters assigned to the fire. The firefighters are dealing with numerous snags and heavy fuel loads. They are working on installing a hose lay to expedite suppression efforts.
The Hall Lake fire is just west of Hall Lake and is 1.5 acres staffed with 22 firefighters. The firefighters made good progress on this fire and estimated containment of this fire is Sept. 1.
Van Jackstraw fire, in the Van Peak, area was .1 acres and was called out yesterday afternoon.
The Piper fire that started on August 5, continues to stay within the confines of the management strategy. The Piper Fire is burning in steep, dangerous, and inaccessible terrain. Due to firefighter safety, the Piper Fire is being managed with a confine and contain strategy. Fire managers have a plan in place to take action on the fire when ground resources can safely mitigate the hazards. Currently crews are monitoring the fire closely.
Additionally, a couple thunderstorms will be possible in Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness this afternoon. The main threats from the storms will be gusty winds.
Updates as of Sept. 1
Hall Lake Fire:
The Hall Lake Fire was put in patrol status at the end of shift today and all resources were demobilized.
Jim Lake Fire:
The Jim Lake Fire was called controlled and put in patrol status. All resources were released at the end of shift.
Cold Lake Fire:
Crews made good progress on the fire today and it is now 80 percent contained. Fire activity was minimal and is characterized as smoldering, creeping, and isolated torching. The current size of the Cold Lake Fire is 7.5 acres. Currently 40 people are staffing the fire and a type 3 helicopter is being used for support.
Piper Fire:
The Piper Fire showed little growth today. Fire activity was minimal and is characterized as backing, creeping, smoldering, and isolated torching. The current size of the Piper Fire is approximately 15 acres.
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