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Western
Montana Incident Management Team news release
Contact: Mike Cole (406) 892-8970 MOOSE FIRE,
Columbia Falls, MT, Sept. 19,
2001
Moose fire creeps along.
The Moose fire increased in acreage over the past few days to 69,365
acres. The main reason why the acreage has increased: Fires
form ragged edges that in certain fuel types cause firefighters to have
to perform a burn out. A burn out removes unconsumed fuels from the edge
of the fire creating a stronger fire line. Crews
and equipment are keeping the fire from forward expansion. Currently 613
firefighters and support personnel are working on the Moose Fire.
Seventeen hand crews, including 6 Type I crews, twenty-four engines,
five dozers, seven water tenders, and six helicopters are on the fire,
which was started by lightning Aug. 14 and has increased to 69,365
acres. Interior
fire activity has increased over the past several days as temperatures
have risen and relative humidity readings dropped. The fire has not
moved significantly, however unburned pockets of fuel in the interior
have been reported to have torching and crowning. Crews are working at
reinforcing perimeter control lines and lines in areas closest to
residential areas. Fire crews are also actively mopping up the areas
along the opened roads. No structures are currently threatened, and no
likely threat is forecast. Fire officials are
reminding people traveling through the fire area not to leave the
roadway. Fire-weakened roots will cause trees to fall without warning
and there is also danger from rolling rocks, logs, and pits from burnt
out root systems, which may appear as level ground, but in fact are
filled with hot ash. Motorists should also drive with their headlights
on. Watch for slow-moving vehicles and firefighters working near the
roads. Fire Information Officers have been stationed near the Camas
Entrance on the North Fork Road to answer questions from the public who
are traveling through the burn area. There is an area closure
for firewood gathering in the fire area. For additional information,
contact the Flathead National Forest at 758-5200 or 387-3800. |