Tribal fire officials report Sinkhole Fire contained

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Division of Fire reported the Sinkhole Fire was fully contained as of Friday, April 9.

The blaze burned a little more than 300 acres west of Dixon along the Flathead River. It was first reported the afternoon of Wednesday, April 7, burning in thick brush, with pockets of Juniper and Ponderosa pine. Wind quickly drove the fire, but rain and snow helped crews get it under control.

Fire officials believe railroad work in the area caused it.

Crews, including 25 firefighters, battled the blaze with the help of various overhead, five type 6 engines, and one dozer.

Access is now open to all roads. Fire officials ask that the public be aware of fire equipment and traffic in the area.

Division of Fire officials are asking people to be extra careful when burning, because windy weather conditions will create an increased risk of wildfire. The warning comes amid several lost debris fires that broke out due to these windy conditions in the past couple weeks.

According to the National Weather Service, daytime temperatures are expected to be between 50 and 60.

Open burning season continues through April 30 on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

If you have questions or concerns regarding this notice, please contact Division of Fire at 676-2550 or contact C.T. Camel, Fire Information Officer, at 406-676-2550 ext. 6407 or email: ct.camel@cskt.org.