Gibralter Ridge Fire update – Aug. 21, 2017
Burning east of Eureka, 3,554 acres, 19% contained
August 21, 2017
Summary
The Gibralter Ridge fire is burning on the Kootenai National Forest seven miles east of Eureka in northwest Montana. It started on Monday, August 7th due to lightning. As of Monday, August 21st it was 3,554 acres in size and 19% contained. This fire threatens residences and structures. Residents were initially evacuated, but later allowed to return to their homes. All residents are in pre-evacuation status and an area closure remains in effect for all non-residents.
A Public Meeting to discuss the current fire situation and expected transition to a Type 3 Team is scheduled for Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at the Lincoln County High School Auditorium in Eureka.
Current Status as of Monday, August 21, 2017, 7:00AM:
There are currently 415 personnel working on this fire. Incident Commander is Rick Connell - NR Western Montana Type II Incident Management Team. Crews continue to build fireline and are doing burn-out operations. Hand ignition on the ground brought the fire to Foothills and Grave Creek Roads on Sunday, Aug. 20th. Fifteen miles of shaded fuels break exists along the Foothills and Grave Creek Roads. Fire crews will continue to protect structures and property outside the containment lines.
Closure: Grave Creek Road (Forest Service Rd 114) is closed at the junction of Foothills Road and Grave Creek. Traffic to and from the Flathead National Forest on this road is not permitted. The public is asked to limit traffic along the roadways in the area to allow emergency responders and firefighters safe access to the fire.
More information
Public Information Officer
Email: gibralterridgefire2017@gmail.com
Phone: (406) 250-8205
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5474/
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