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Klatawa and Smearl Fires Continue to Concern Fire Officials
Release Date: Oct 11, 2015
Contact(s): Wille Sykes
LIBBY, Mont. October 11, 2015 – The Klatawa and Smearl fires on the Kootenai National Forest continue to concern fire officials. A long-term management plan is in-place to manage the Klatawa fire. The Klatawa fire is currently 5112 acres and contingency fire lines are in place to stop the spread. Most of the fire growth is topography driven and with the winds, fire personnel are expect to see continued creeping and backing into the handlines that have been constructed. Fire personnel will continue to monitor and reinforce fire lines to keep the fire from spreading toward private property and homes.
The Smearl fire is located in the Leigh Lake area and is suspected to be human caused. This fire is approximately 180 acres and has a hand-line around approximately two-thirds of the fire. Fire personnel will continue to monitor and reinforce fire lines to keep it from spreading further. This fire is at 70% containment.
Minimum precipitation measuring .13 inches has been received since October 1 over these fires and wind gusts of up to 24 mph are predicted today. Near record temperatures are expected into next week. Citizens will continue to see smoke and active fire. With the predicted high pressure front developing, inversions will keep smoke in the valley during the week.
Resources are shared between the Klatawa and Smearl fires. Four helicopters have been working the hot spots and providing air support over the last four days. Resources on the fire include: 4 20-person crews, 10 smokejumpers, 18 helitack personnel, 3 district engines, and 10 miscellaneous support personnel.
Fire managers are coordinating with city and county officials to keep the public informed of changing conditions. Support from local businesses for supplies and meals are appreciated. Excellent coordination with city and county officials continues.
Closure orders for the Big Cherry/Leigh Lake road as well as the Leigh Lake trail are still in-place for public safety. The Flower Creek closure order is still in effect. As soon as conditions change on the Klatawa and Smearl fires, forest officials will evaluate lifting the closure orders. Currently no pre-evacuation orders are in place.
Although open burning is in effect, the continuing fire season is a good reminder to use caution when starting any type of fire and make sure all 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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