Single Publication

Solomon Fire Update - Sept. 8, 2022

Over the past few days, the Solomon Fire has grown by approximately 50 acres and is now 350 acres in size. Steady growth and moderate-active fire behavior has been observed primarily on the eastern flank of the fire. Afternoon winds have pushed the fire toward the east to the top of a ridgeline (at the top of Mecca Gulch). Yesterday, a helicopter was used to check fire spread on the eastern flank of the fire to prevent fire growth over the ridge. Additionally, the fire continues to slowly burn in the main bowl below Solomon Mountain where heavy fuels and dead and down trees are predominant (at approximately 6,800 feet in elevation). 
The fire is most active in the afternoons, exhibiting fire behavior that consists of occasional single and group tree torching, short-range spotting, and short up-hill runs driven by weather and low relative humidity. Firefighters are anticipating cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity beginning this evening (Sept. 8) and throughout the day tomorrow (Sept. 9) which will help to moderate fire behavior.
Firefighters and engines continue to actively patrol the Rock Creek Corridor and are also patrolling the fire from the air. Those recreating in the area may see or hear helicopters working, which will be used as needed to check and limit fire spread on the ridge.
Smoke may be visible from the Rock Creek Road, the Rock Creek recreation corridor, and parts of the Bitterroot Valley. If you are recreating in the Rock Creek area, please drive with caution as fire vehicles will be present. 
The terrain, fuel type, and the presence of snag trees limit the ability to place firefighters directly on the fire. Firefighter and public safety is the top priority when assessing this engagement. No structures or infrastructure are currently threatened. 
*Fire Information will be updated every 2-3 days unless conditions significantly change. 
Incident Overview: The Solomon Fire is being managed under a point protection strategy which means that highly valued resources (such as buildings, infrastructure, or recreational assets) are being strategically protected from the fire, utilizing various natural and geographic features (past wildfires, trails, rock, and cliff bands) while protecting other values consistent with the Welcome Creek Wilderness. Air support, such as helicopters, may be used to slow and limit potential fire spread. Firefighters are patrolling and monitoring the fire via air and from vantage points on the ground and utilizing fuel moisture measurements, field weather observations, and fire models to inform the suppression strategy. 

CLOSURESEmergency trail closures are in place for public safety: 

• Solomon Ridge Trail #142, from milepost 0.0 at Solomon Ridge Trailhead to milepost 4.2 at its junction with Trail #232.
• Welcome-Sawmill Saddle Trail #232, from milepost 0.0 at its junction with Trail #142 to milepost 5.4.
• Sawmill Ridge Trail #178, from milepost 0.0 at Sawmill Fishing Access to milepost 6.4 at its junction with Trail #232.
• Welcome Mountain Trailhead