Missoula Wildfires: Updates On Miller Peak & Butler Creek Fires - Latest News
Is the serenity of the Montana landscape once again under siege, with the threat of wildfires casting a long shadow over communities near Missoula? The relentless advance of the Miller Peak and Butler Creek fires is a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature and the unwavering resolve of those who fight to protect lives and property.
As the sun sets over the rugged terrain southeast of Missoula, the Miller Peak fire continues to rage, painting the sky with hues of orange and red. Officials are working tirelessly to contain the blaze, which has already consumed thousands of acres, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The Lolo National Forest reports that fire behavior is erratic, fueled by the dry conditions and the unpredictable winds that characterize the region. The Missoula County Sheriff's Office has issued urgent evacuation warnings for residents along Upper Miller Creek Road, a testament to the rapidly changing circumstances and the potential for further spread. The fire, estimated at 800 acres as of Monday evening, has forced many to flee their homes, carrying with them only what they could quickly gather. The intensity of the situation is underscored by the closure of Lower Miller Creek Road, blocked by debris from recent storms, and the imposition of temporary flight restrictions to ensure the safety of firefighting efforts. Resources are stretched thin, with eight engines, two helicopters, and two large air tankers battling the inferno.
Meanwhile, further north of Missoula, another wildfire, the Butler Creek fire, is demanding attention. This new threat, reported early Monday morning, has prompted its own set of evacuation orders and warnings. The Butler Creek fire, burning an estimated 307 acres as of 3 p.m., showcases the unpredictable nature of these events. Ground and aerial crews are battling to contain the blaze, with initial containment efforts reaching 15%. While firefighters gain ground, up to a quarter of an inch of rain has provided a small measure of respite.
The Miller Peak fire, located approximately 8 miles southeast of Missoula in the Plant Creek drainage near Miller Peak, is the focus of intense concern. The blaze, estimated at 500 acres at 8 p.m., has been steadily growing, burning approximately 2,403 acres, according to maps updated this morning. Evacuation warnings, as per Inciweb, are affecting residents from 14380 Upper Miller Creek Road to the junction of the West Fork Schwartz Creek Road and beyond. The fire's relentless advance is reflected in the fact that it has no containment and is burning 2,403 acres as of Saturday morning, with 501 personnel on the front lines. A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. The use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) drones for burnout operations marks the application of advanced firefighting techniques. Stage II fire restrictions are in effect for the entire forest. Some roads in the Miller Creek area are closed.
The Plant Creek fire, reported shortly before 2:30 p.m. on Monday, is another area of concern. The fire is burning 11 miles up the Miller Creek Road, southeast of Missoula, on the west side of Plant Creek Road. This area, like the others, is subject to closures and restrictions designed to manage the fire's impact and protect residents. Firefighters also have to mop up a fire that caused a temporary evacuation of 60 homes in Miller Creek on Sunday night, which is now 30% contained. The Miller Peak fire, burning 7 miles south of Missoula, is 65% contained as of Monday. The temporary flight restriction has reduced in size, showing progress in this area.
The persistent dry conditions and the chance for thunderstorms are major concerns for fire officials. The potential for lightning strikes only increases the risk of new ignitions and the further spread of existing fires. Fire officials also said that the fire was likely ignited by lightning, and burned quickly through dry grass because of high winds, adding another layer of difficulty to their already daunting task. Area and road closures are in effect due to hazardous conditions. Residents are strongly advised to heed all evacuation orders and warnings and to remain vigilant as the situation evolves. The ongoing updates from the Lolo National Forest and through resources like Inciweb are vital for staying informed.
The ongoing situation is a testament to the dedication of the firefighters and support personnel working tirelessly to protect lives and property. Their efforts, combined with the community's resilience, provide a beacon of hope amid the devastation.
Here's a table that summarizes the key data points about the Miller Peak Fire, which can be easily inserted into a WordPress site or similar platforms:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Miller Peak Fire |
| Location | Approximately 8 miles southeast of Missoula, Montana, in the Plant Creek drainage near Miller Peak. |
| Date of Report | The fire has been active for several days with ongoing updates |
| Acres Burned (approximate) | 2,403 acres as of the most recent updates. |
| Containment | No containment as of the last update. |
| Evacuation Orders/Warnings | Evacuation warnings are in place for residents along Upper Miller Creek Road, specifically from 14380 Upper Miller Creek Road to the junction of the West Fork Schwartz Creek Road. |
| Resources Deployed | Eight engines, two helicopters, two large air tankers, and 501 personnel |
| Road Closures | Lower Miller Creek Road is closed from debris, and other area/road closures are in effect. |
| Fire Restrictions | Stage II fire restrictions are in effect in the area. |
| Cause (likely) | Likely ignited by lightning. |
| Other Details | Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) drones are being used for burnout operations. A temporary flight restriction is in effect over the fire area. |
| Official Source for Updates | InciWeb |
As for the Butler Creek fire, the information available includes:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Butler Creek Fire |
| Location | 7 miles northwest of Missoula, Montana. |
| Estimated Acres Burned | 307 acres as of Monday at 3 p.m. |
| Containment | 15% contained |
| Evacuation Orders/Warnings | Evacuation orders and warnings are in place. |
