Single Publication

Public Meeting – Friday, August 5th at 7:00 pm
 Elmo Pow Wow Grounds – Hwy 93

The Elmo Fire increased approximately 2,000 acres for a current size of 20,616 acres and 6% contained. Consistent winds out of the southwest, low humidity and continuous fuels created significant fire activity on the north end of the fire pushing the perimeter towards the southeast shore of Lake Mary Ronan and approaching Camp Tuffit Road.

Evacuations

The evacuation order remains in place for all residents residing north and south of Hwy 352 (Lake Mary Ronan Road) and all residents who live along Lake Mary Ronan. All prior evacuation orders and pre-evacuation warnings are still in effect.

Area Closures and Restrictions

• The Boat Ramp at the Elmo Fishing Access Site and Lake Mary Ronan State Park are CLOSED.
• The CSKT Division of Fire is implementing Stage 1 fire restrictions on Flathead Indian Reservation lands effective at 12:01 AM on Friday, August 5, 2022.

Current and Planned Activity

Yesterday, winds increased out of the southwest in the afternoon and the fire burned actively in continuous timber fuels. Upslope runs and spotting caused significant growth on the north side of the fire, limiting firefighters’ ability to engage directly on the fire’s edge around 2:00 PM. Crews secured fireline along the west side of the fire holding and improving previously constructed line. Firefighters on the east side of the fire engaged with active fire in unburned fuels and focused on those areas to secure the fireline. The southern edge along Highway 28 remained contained and in patrol status. All areas of the fire were supported by numerous aircraft providing water and retardant drops. A night shift prepared for approaching fire on the north to be able to hold the fire at Camp Tuffit Road.

Today, firefighters will focus on Camp Tuffit Road and work to hold the fire as it approaches the southeast shore of Lake Mary Ronan. Structure preparation, mitigation, and secondary line construction and improvement will be a priority in this area. Aircraft will be utilized as conditions allow to support crews and equipment. Crews on the eastern and western sides of the fire will focus on areas of heat along the fire’s edge to ensure existing lines hold the fire in the current footprint.

Two fire investigators with the CSKT Fire Management program have determined the fire was human caused. The determination into its specific cause remains under investigation.

Weather: A red flag warning is in effect from noon to 9 PM on Thursday with sustained winds increasing from Wednesday. Mostly sunny with temperatures in the mid to high 80s.

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