Total Acres: 564
Containment: 0%
Start Date: September 1, 2022
Cause: Lightning

Highlights: Today, the Type 2 Northern Rockies Incident Management Team 3 assumed command of the Lemonade Fire. The larger organization will help facilitate better logistical support for the firefighting crews. The past few days' hot and dry weather caused some fire growth. However, firefighters have progressed in getting firelines in, and more crews and resources have been ordered and are arriving daily. Air resources, including helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, are being utilized to aid the firefighters on the ground.

Operations: Firefighters, heavy equipment operators, and aircraft have been working on the fire. On the east perimeter, a heavy equipment line is being constructed, and firefighters are working on handline to tie it into Forest Service Road 9640. These crews were supported yesterday by helicopters conducting water drops to cool the fire's edge. Firefighters will look for opportunities to fight the fire directly in this area if it is safe, as tree snags pose a significant hazard. Yesterday on the southwestern edge, fixed-wing aircraft called Fire Bosses dropped water to slow the spread in that direction. Today on the northwest and southwest sides, fire managers will scout for opportunities to put in firelines utilizing heavy equipment and hand crews.  

Weather and Fire Behavior:  Temperatures will be in the low to mid-70s in the fire area today, with relative humidity as low as 20-25%. Winds will be southwest around 9-12 with gusts to 18 mph. The fire is most active in mature timber with heavy dead and down fuels. Live fuels like grass and shrubs are starting to cure on the southern slopes but are not significantly contributing to fire behavior, except where most exposed.  

Evacuations:  Currently, there are no evacuations; however, one property is under pre-evacuation notice. 

Closures: Griffin Creek Road (NFS #538) and Forest Service Trails 201, 211, and 287 are closed to the public. The closures are for public and firefighter safety as equipment, crews and aircraft are working extensively in the area.  

Temporary Flight Restrictions:  A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area, including the use of drones. Remember, if you fly, we can't. 

Smoke: Visit https://deq.mt.gov/air/Programs/smokeforecasts for Montana Department of Environmental Quality smoke outlooks. 

Fire Information Office Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Phone: 406-272-4859| Email: 2022.lemonade@firenet.gov