Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
We're working to fix a technical issue causing problems with our broadcasts. We'll have it resolved as soon as possible. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Wildfire, fire management and air quality news for western Montana and the Northern Rockies.

Montana Wildfire Update For July 30, 2020

Map showing 2020 Montana wildfires >100 acres.
Josh Burnham
/
Montana Public Radio
2020 Montana wildfires >100 acres.

Four large fires continue to burn in Montana today.

Nearly 300 personnel are working the 2,500 acre Magpie Rock Fire near Dixon. That fire doubled in size overnight and remains 0% contained, according to an update from the CSKT Division of Fire. It is not threatening any structures, but road closures are in effect for Revais 6000 road between Revais and Magpie as well as Magpie 5000 road. Heavy air tankers dropped retardant on the fire Tuesday. Firefighters plan to continue work on containment lines today.

Southwest of Polson, firefighters and aerial resources are working to contain the 140 acre Horseshoe Fire, which was started by an unattended campfire Tuesday. There are no evacuations or closures due to the fire, which is reported at 20% contained.

The Whistle Creek Fire burning seven miles south of Big Timber in Sweet Grass County is threatening nine structures including three primary residences.

Sweet Grass County Fire Chief Kris Novotny reports the fire has burned 143 acres as of this Thursday morning and is zero percent contained. The cause of the fire is unknown.

A helicopter, a heavy air tanker, and multiple small fixed wing tankers are helping to fight the wildfire. The Bitterroot Hotshots and fire crews and 15 engines from the US Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and numerous neighboring cities and counties are on the fire.

The 354 acre Clear Creek Fire near Perma is reported as 95% contained. Firefighters will continue to patrol the lines.

Several lightning-caused fires were discovered on the Lolo and Bitterroot National Forests after thunderstorms moved through the area Wednesday. Those fires were quickly contained, and all were less than 2 acres in size, according to updates from forest officials.

Get the latest Montana wildfire, fire management and air quality news on your radio, via podcast, or in your inbox.

Become a sustaining member for as low as $5/month
Make an annual or one-time donation to support MTPR
Pay an existing pledge or update your payment information
Related Content