Containment of Niarada fire increases

Western Montana wildfire managers on Monday warned that activity could ramp up again with dangerous weather conditions on tap this week.

Triple-digit record high temperatures combined with gusty winds could increase behavior on the Niarada Fire west of Elmo. Some unburned areas of the 20,365-acre fire are expected to flame up, and could include some torching trees. Any new fire growth would be under heavy timber areas.

Fire managers warn that new spots in grass could spread easily.

Cooler than normal weather with ample precipitation over the last week allowed crews to reach 80% containment on the lightning-caused fire, as of Monday.

Along Montana 28, skilled sawyers were cutting fire-killed snags, enabling safe access for hand crews to previously hazardous, inaccessible areas.

Along the southeastern and southwestern sides, crews continued to work directly along the fire’s edge to eliminate heat and build fire lines. Several Type 1 Interagency Hotshot crews were improving fire lines and preparing for a strategic firing operation on the southwest side.

Structure protection crews continued to work outside Elmo toward Big Arm, testing sprinkler systems and pumps while working with landowners on additional vegetation management around structures.

The nearby Mill Pocket Fire was moved to patrol status. Helicopters continued to drop water as needed, and crews were mopping up hot spots where they can access them.

Stage 2 fire restrictions are in place across the Flathead Indian Reservation, Sanders and Flathead counties. No campfires are allowed, no smoking outside of vehicles, no operating combustible engines from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m., no operating vehicles off designated roads and trails.