Lightning Ignites Wildfire in Central Montana
OutdoorHub 08.22.12
A wildfire was reported to the Lewistown Interagency Dispatch Center at 9:30 p.m. on August 21, 2012. It is burning approximately 15 miles northwest of Winifred, Montana. The PN Fire is occurring north of the Missouri River on Bureau of Land Management-managed lands within the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument as well as on private lands adjacent to the monument. BLM fire officials have reported the fire size to be 1,700 acres. The incident is burning in steep terrain, primarily in grass, brush and isolated timber stands. No structures are threatened at this time. Twelve engines, one helicopter and five overhead personnel have responded to the incident. No additional resources have been ordered at this time. The fire is believed to be lightning-caused as a storm system moved through the area yesterday evening bringing lightning and very little, if any, precipitation. Although there is no containment at this time, crews worked through the night to build and maintain fireline around the incident.
Bureau of Land Management fire officials would like to remind the public to remain cautious when camping and recreating on public lands. Even the smallest spark has the potential to cause significant damage, so please do your part to prevent wildfires. Crush cigarettes dead out and never leave a campfire unattended. Take precautions by always carrying a shovel, bucket and fire extinguisher. Make sure your campfire is dead out before leaving your campsite.
It is also important to know the local fire restrictions before you go. For up-to-date fire restriction information, please go to www.firerestrictions.us/mt.
