Copper King wildfire burns 700 acres east of Thompson Falls

(Editor's note: In a previous version of this story, "King Copper" was used as a nickname for the fire as the Clark Fork Valley Press went to print. In subsequent stories, the wildfire will be referred to as "Copper King" in keeping with the official record. —Trip Burns)

THOMPSON FALLS—A 200-acre wildfire that began burning on Sunday afternoon, is now estimated to be 700 acres, according to a forest service official. And it could still grow to be larger during the week.

“There is no containment right now,” John Hamilton, a forest service official told the Clark Fork Valley Press on Monday morning. “There were crews on the ground overnight keeping an eye on it—watching it.”

The wildfire is approximately eight miles east of the town of Thompson Falls, producing a visible trail of smoke for miles in every direction. No immediate threats to structures or residents were reported as of press time—nor are there an evacuation plans being made as of Monday afternoon. However, the Big Lookout Project event, which is close to the burning area, has been cancelled.

The fire—which U.S. Forest Service officials have called Copper King—is very visible from Hwy. 200 and local law enforcement in Thompson Falls are directing vehicles through the area. Residents and drivers are being encouraged not to stop and look at the fire, as it might stop traffic and pose an unnecessary danger. In addition, motorists are being asked to avoid the area if possible, according to a statement made by the forest service.

Forest Service officials with the Plains/Thompson Falls district said that two helicopters provided suppression with bucket drops as well as an Air Attack fixed wing aircraft to contain the fire.

A Single Engine Air Tanker (SEAT) is also assisting suppression efforts with retardant drops.

A Type II team was expected to arrived within 48 hours of Sunday afternoon to assist firefighting efforts.

The official plan was to continue the use of air support to check for fire growth.

Sources told the Clark Fork Valley Press that the Plains airport is being used as a launching point for air support.

In addition, on Monday, officials will be setting up an ICP base in Plains near Helterline Lane.

The cause of the fire is unknown, although Hamilton said it is under investigation.

“There’s a trail head nearby,” he said. “Hopefully the public can be aware of how dangerous these fires can become.”