|
Contact: Denise Germann, 406-888-5838 Contact: Jennifer Lutman, 406-888-7895
WEST GLACIER, MONT. - Aerial water drops on the Avalanche Wildland Fire continue today with the use of a heavy-lift helicopter, designed to carry large loads of water for fire suppression efforts. Approximately 25 firefighters from Glacier National Park, Flathead National Forest, and Kootenai National Forest, in addition to eight smoke jumpers, are working to secure the fire line on the west and north sides of the fire. The size estimate of the fire is approximately 70 acres. This is due to more accurate mapping of the fire, not fire growth. Weather forecasts expect a cold front to impact Glacier National Park this evening, bringing winds up to 50 miles per hour, rain, and possible snow above 7,500 feet. A 50 percent chance of rain is forecasted for Thursday. Firefighter safety remains top priority and fire suppression activities may be suspended during inclement weather. The Avalanche Wildland Fire is located on Mount Brown, near Avalanche Lake on the west side of Glacier National Park. Smoke was reported on Saturday, September 1 at approximately 2:30 p.m. and the cause of the fire is believed to be lightning. The Avalanche Lake Trail remains closed until further notice. -NPS- |
Last updated: February 24, 2015