The Elmo Fire experienced minimal growth yesterday of 16 acres for a total of 21,198 acres. The fire remains south of Lake Mary Ronan and containment increased to 18%. Despite a continuous line around the fire perimeter, significant work is needed to secure the line and ensure areas of heat remain interior.
Evacuations Evacuation orders remain in place for all residents residing north and south of Hwy 352 (Lake Mary Ronan Road), around Lake Mary Ronan, as well as residents living off Chief Lake Lane and Black Lake Road. Pre-evacuation warnings are still in effect for residents east and south of Hwy 93 between Hwy 28 and Lake Mary Ronan Road (352). Area Closures and Restrictions · The Flathead Indian Reservation Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes and Lake County are currently under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. · The Boat Ramp at the Elmo Fishing Access Site and Lake Mary Ronan State Park are CLOSED. Current and Planned Activity Yesterday, reduced winds and lower temperatures allowed firefighters to construct and improve line around the entire perimeter of the fire. South of Lake Mary Ronan, crews were supported by aircraft as they held the fireline along the north/south ridge and worked in the unburned fuels along the road. This mix of burned and unburned fuels required small firing operations to reduce risk of further increased fire activity and threats to the line. A secondary fireline to the west of the ridge and along the roadway was also improved as a contingency line. Crews focused on structure assessment around Lake Mary Ronan, mitigation around homes, and placement of sprinkler systems on the south side of the lake. Firefighters assessed and patrolled the irregular pockets of burned and unburned grass fuels south of Lake Mary Ronan Road and south of the meadows. Strong overnight wind gusts experienced on the east side of Flathead Lake did not reach the fire, allowing night shift crews to improve fireline throughout the evening. Today, firefighters will secure fireline on the western side of the fire by searching out heat approximately 60 feet interior as well as utilize hose lays along the line. Crews and equipment will be supported by aircraft as they reinforce firelines around the most active sections of the fire south of Lake Mary Ronan. Weather: Saturday will be mild and partly cloudy with winds up to 15 mph at the ridge tops and temperatures in the 70s to low 80s. Low afternoon humidity and no precipitation in the long-term forecast. Next Public Meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 8th at 7:00 pm at the Elmo Pow Wow Grounds – Hwy 93.
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