Klatawa and Smearl Fires update
by Kootenai National Forest
October 13, 2015
LIBBY, MT - Monday, October 12, 2015 – The following is a 24 hour update on the Klatawa and Smearl Fires on the Kootenai National Forest. The unseasonably dry and warm fall has caused the Klatwa and Smearl fires to continue to burn. The fires will continue to produce smoke and the high pressure system may hold smoke in the valley. The control lines on both fires held during the wind event yesterday.
The Klatawa fire showed little growth over the last 24 hours. According to fire personnel, the fire will continue backing and creeping into the hand lines that have been constructed. Fire personnel will continue to monitor and reinforce existing fire lines to keep the fire from spreading toward private property and homes.
Planned actions on the Klatawa fire include: Constructing fire line on the northeast flank today and completing indirect control lines on the southeast flank of the fire. Heavy helicopters are also providing air support on the upper ridge of the fire. This fire received .6 inches of rain last night.
The Smearl fire also showed little fire growth over the last 24 hours. This fire is at 70% containment with good control lines in place and continual improvement of fire control points during the wind event. Forest fire officials will continue to monitor the fire with local resources. This fire received .8 inches of rain over night which helped the fire effort.
Fire managers have begun slowly downsizing resources and personnel. As conditions have changed on the Klatawa and Smearl fires, Forest officials are evaluating lifting or reducing the scope of the closure orders soon. However, it is important to remember that these fires will likely burn and put up smoke until significant rain or snow.
With hunting season quickly approaching, Forest officials would like to remind all hunters and other outdoor recreationists to be careful with fire and make sure all warming fires are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended.
For additional fire information, please contact your local ranger district or the Supervisor’s Office.
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