<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<!-- 
cached data at 08:46:26
cached id d07502c835fc53cfebdf10718ce5326d
-->
<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"><channel> <atom:link href="http://inciweb.org/feeds/rss/articles/i/938/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><title>InciWeb Incident Articles for Black Cat</title><link>http://inciweb.org/forest/938/</link><description>Latest articles for Black Cat Wildland Fire</description><pubDate>Sun, 23 Nov 2008 08:46:26 -06:00</pubDate><language>en-us</language><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Fully Contained (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/6230/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/6230/</guid><description><![CDATA["Evaro, MT - Officials with the Black Cat Fire announced this week that the fire is now 100% contained. Fire activity has decreased significantly with aid from both firefighters and weather. Smoke will still be visible to the public for some time, as pockets of unburned vegetation burn within the fire&#39;s perimeter. This will likely last through the remainder of fire season. Firefighting resources continue to downsize as the Black Cat Fire&#39;s activity decreases. Current resources include rehabilitation crews from each agency, as well as patrol engines from the Frenchtown Fire Department, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. These engines will continue to check the area for any fire activity near the perimeter of the fire. Residents are reminded to be aware of hazards that exist from the fire. Downed trees, stumps and stump holes will continue to smolder and may flare up occasionally. Snags and green trees whose roots..."]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 06 Sep 2007 10:54:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Update 8/29/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5948/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5948/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 542-4321Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 29, 20079:00 a.m. Current Situation: Fire activity diminished again yesterday. Isolated torching, though still occurring, was less frequent. Mop up is the main activity taking place on the northern two thirds of the fire, with crews focusing on rehabilitation of the southern portion. Rehabilitation includes actions such as putting in water bars to help prevent erosion and pulling material back across the suppression lines to give them a more natural look. Water support is coming from an extensive network of hose lays the crews are using to mop up. Last night engines were assigned to the line to monitor the fire&#39;s perimeter and patrol around structures to ensure that no flare ups occurred. The Radiometric Airborne Mapping (RAM) System was used this afternoon..."]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 29 Aug 2007 12:00:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Update 8 28 07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5904/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5904/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 28, 20079:00 a.m.  Current Situation: Fire activity has moderated in the Frog Creek area as pockets of unburned vegetation are consumed. Firefighters observed some single tree torching in the interior of the fire. Mop up continued on the north, east and west sides of the fire 300 feet in from the perimeter. Air support is still available to assist crews with mop up operations. Over 18,000 gallons of water were utilized in yesterday&#39;s activities. Last night engines were assigned to the line to monitor the fire&#39;s perimeter and patrol around structures to ensure that no flare ups occurred. The Radiometric Airborne Mapping (RAM) System was used to detect heat around homes that were within the fire footprint. No heat was found within a 300-foot perimeter around..."]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 28 Aug 2007 11:33:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Canadian Firefighters Help Fight Montana Blazes (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5883/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5883/</guid><description><![CDATA["August 20, 2007 - SaskatchewanSixty Type I firefighters from Canada have come to Missoula, MT to assist with fire suppression efforts. Forty of the firefighters were dispatched to the Black Cat Fire and the remaining 20 to the Sawmill Complex.Saskatchewan crews are compiled of members from all over the province. Individuals came from La Ronge, Lo Loche, Buffalo Narrows, Lower Fishing Lakes, Hudson Bay, Prince Albert, Green Lake, and Cypress Hills. These crews are highly trained and experienced. They are led by members with 15 - 25 years of firefighting experience.Canadian Type I crews have been utilized in the United States on many previous occasions in Montana, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and"]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 27 Aug 2007 14:26:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Morning Update 8-27-07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5871/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5871/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 27, 20079:00 a.m. Current Situation: Yesterday fire activity was moderate in the Frog Creek area as interior islands of vegetation burned. Firefighters observed some single tree torching within the fire perimeter. Smoke was minimal. Mop up continued on the northeast and west sides of the fire. Crews utilized minimal air support, which was indicative of the moderation in fire behavior yesterday.  Today, we can expect similar weather as yesterday with minimal wind, and more moderate temperatures. Crews will continue mopping up by putting out smoldering logs, stumps, and debris in the Frog Creek area and Upper Mill Creek. The Radiometric Airborne Mapping System (RAMS) will be used to ensure that there are no remaining hotspots within 300 feet around structures in the..."]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 27 Aug 2007 11:47:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Afternoon Update 8-26-07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5856/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5856/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 26, 20074:00 p.m.  Current Situation: Fire activity has been minimal thus far today. Fire crews are working to extinguish four spot fires near the containment line in the Frog Creek area and southeast of Charity Peak. In this same area as well as Upper Mill Creek, crews are continuing to put out smoldering logs, stumps, and debris.  Preparedness Notice Lifted Tomorrow at 6 a.m.: As of 6 a.m. Monday August 27, the one-hour preparedness notice is lifted for all areas of the fire. Traffic check points will still be staffed at the Helibase off Hwy 93 and the A1000 road. We ask that only residents access roads previously staffed by the National Guard since there is still heavy equipment and crews traveling in these areas. Residents are reminded that there may still be..."]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 26 Aug 2007 20:56:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Morning Update (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5824/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5824/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 26, 20079:00a.m. Current Situation: Yesterday, firefighters reported an increase in fire activity with winds gusting up to 25 mph. About forty spot fires ranging in size up to ¼ acre occurred on the fire&#39;s north end as a result of the wind. Crews gridded the area outside the fire perimeter to look for other spot fires that may have occurred. Aerial resources worked throughout the day, assisting firefighters with their efforts. A total of 17,412 gallons of water were dropped on the fire yesterday. One crew remained on the fireline through the night to monitor fire activity and to get an early start this morning.  Today, winds are predicted to be out of the west with gusts to 20 mph. A RAMS flight will be done this morning to look for other areas of heat outside..."]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 26 Aug 2007 12:14:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Afternoon Update 8-25-07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5812/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5812/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 25, 20074:00 p.m. Current Situation: This afternoon high winds and lower humidity have increased fire activity. Crews are working diligently in tough conditions to contain the fire despite the increased winds. A spot fire that crossed the fireline on the north end of the fire has been incorporated into the main fire. Crews were able to put a dozer line around it and control the spot. Helicopters continue to assist the fire crews on the ground with bucket drops and aerial observation. An extensive network of pumps and hoses are in place to aid crews in the Frog Creek drainage.  Community Information:  Residents on upper Mill Creek and those along Highway 93 remain on one hour preparedness until fire officials determine it is no longer necessary. For these home..."]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 25 Aug 2007 19:43:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Morning Update 08/25/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5775/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5775/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 25, 20079:00 a.m. Current Situation: A fire information briefing was held last night at the Arlee High School. Approximately 30 residents attended. Marc Mullenix, with the Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team, provided a summary of the burnout operation to secure the north and northeast flanks of the fire. Mullenix also discussed the red flag warning predicted for this weekend which will bring gusty winds and lower humidity. The burnout operation that occurred on the north end of the fire yesterday was very successful. To get the intensity necessary to complete the burnout operation and to provide for firefighter safety, firefighters used aerial ignition to assist with the burnout. Approximately 100 firefighters spiked out again last night to monitor the fire...."]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 25 Aug 2007 10:08:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Evening Update 08/24/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5769/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5769/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 24, 20074:00 p.m. Current Situation: Burnout operations continued today on the north end of the fire. Fire activity was minimal due to cloud shading over the burnout area. To get the intensity necessary to complete the burnout operation, aerial ignition was used. Aerial ignition involves the use of plastic spheres that look similar to ping pong balls which contain a flammable substance that ignites as it reaches the ground. This process allows crews to burn out critical areas where access and firefighter safety are issues. Smoke from this operation will continue to be evident throughout the evening. On the northwest flank of the fire, crews continued to mop up hot spots and were supported by helicopter bucket drops as necessary. On the remaining fire perimeter,..."]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 24 Aug 2007 20:51:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Morning Update 08/24/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5733/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5733/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org   August 24, 20079:00 a.m.  Current Situation: On the north end of the fire, burnout operations that were started yesterday progressed as planned. The second phase of the burn will continue today if weather is favorable. Smoke will be evident from these burnouts. Approximately 100 firefighters spiked out on the line overnight to monitor the area that was burned out and to get an early start on today&#39;s operations. Mop-up will continue on the remaining portions of the fire. Beginning Saturday, August 25, 2007, Frenchtown Pond State Park will be open for public use.  Community Information:  The last community meeting was held in Frenchtown last night, with an attendance of around 65 residents...."]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 24 Aug 2007 10:33:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Afternoon Update (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5713/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5713/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 23, 20073:00 p.m. Current Situation: Smoke was evident this afternoon on the northern flank of the fire due to two large burnout operations. However, a small thunder storm moved over the fire this afternoon slowing the burnout operation. This burnout operation will continue tomorrow if weather permits.  Community Information:  There will be a community meeting at Frenchtown High School at 7:30 p.m., tonight. Fire officials will have a fire briefing for the residents in Arlee on Friday, August, 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the High School gym. Officials will answer question and provide a fire update at these meetings. There are several fire information bulletin boards where you can find information...."]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 23 Aug 2007 19:17:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Morning Update 8-23-07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5685/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5685/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 23, 20079:00 a.m. Current Situation: Firefighters began a 30-acre burnout operation west of Hwy 93, near O&#39;Keefe Creek and northwest of Evaro, which they will finish up today. Fire activity continued in the interior portion of the fire and smoke was visible in the area of the fire. In the Spring Hill and Mill Creek areas, crews will continue mop-up and extinguishing hot spots. Containment on the fire remains at 35 percent and the number of acres is unchanged.  Senator Jon Tester visited fire camp last night where he met firefighters and thanked them for their outstanding efforts.  With additional resources and weather permitting, today, firefighters will conduct a burnout operation in..."]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 23 Aug 2007 11:01:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Evening Update 8-22-07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5673/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5673/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 22, 20074:00 p.m. Current Situation: Containment on the fire increased to 35% as a result of yesterday&#39;s work while the acreage remained unchanged. However, hot and dry weather has moderately increased fire activity today as firefighters continue to improve control lines. Fire officials are evaluating the need for burnouts to remove fuels inside the fire area and strengthen these lines. The northeast flank near Frog Creek remains the hottest division. The crews are mopping up line approximately 200 feet into the perimeter of the fire on the northwest and eastern flanks of the fire. There may be fuel that is still burning on the interior of the fire and may continue to produce smoke for..."]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 22 Aug 2007 18:20:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Morning Update (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5642/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5642/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 22, 20079:00 a.m. Current Situation: Firefighters will continue work on the northern boundary of the fire. To help strengthen the fire line a series of burnouts are planned for the next few days. Weather permitting, the first is to start today along the north east side of the fire. Other burnouts will take place near Charity Peak and Frog Creek later in the week. These burnouts may create considerable smoke over the next 2-3 days.  RAMS (Radiometric Airborne Mapping System) is being utilized more as crews are focusing on hot spots on the fire perimeter. This technology allows more accurate mapping of fire perimeter and hotspots to more efficiently deploy crews to areas requiring..."]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 22 Aug 2007 10:46:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Evacuations Lifted for All of Black Cat Fire (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5640/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5640/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 21, 20078:00 p.m.   MEDIA ADVISORY All Evacuations Lifted   Wednesday, August 22 at 10:00 a.m., fire and law enforcement officials will allow all remaining evacuated residents to return home. This re-occupation includes the area west of Highway 93 and north of the Bucksnort Restaurant, which was not included in the earlier release.  Visitation will be allowed on a limited basis. Residents will be required to escort visitors or service personnel from the traffic control points. This additional traffic needs to be limited to 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. All residents will be required to present ID and proof of residence at traffic control points. Those returning should remain ready to re-evacuate..."]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 22 Aug 2007 00:42:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Evening Update 8-21-07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5636/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5636/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 21, 20076:00 p.m. Current Situation: Cooler temperatures and light moisture allowed firefighters to complete a very rough perimeter line on the northern portion of the fire today. On the west side of the fire the line follows the ridge above Blackcat Gulch to just north of Charity Peak, and then heads southeast down to Highway 93 near Evaro. However, this line still needs considerable work to be an effective control line. Firefighters will continue to fell trees and remove vegetation along the line in preparation for burnout operations that they hope to begin Wednesday afternoon to improve and strengthen the control line. Two Canadian fire crews with extensive experience in pumps and water..."]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 21 Aug 2007 22:39:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Some Residence Allowed to Return (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5616/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5616/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 21, 200712:00 p.m.  MEDIA ADVISORY Some Residents Allowed to Return Home   Fire and law enforcement officials have determined it is currently safe to allow residents to re-occupy their homes in many areas adjacent to the Black Cat Fire. Effective Tuesday, August 21 at 8:00 p.m. residents in the upper Mill Creek area and all residents on the east side of Highway 93 will be allowed to return home. Residents west of Highway 93 and south of the Bucksnort Restaurant will also be allowed to return home. The evacuation order remains in effect west of Highway 93 from the Bucksnort Restaurant north to mile marker 10. All residents that are returning home should remain ready to re-evacuate within..."]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 21 Aug 2007 15:17:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Morning Update 08/21/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5597/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5597/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 21, 20078:00 a.m. Frenchtown, MT - A community fire information meeting was held last night at the Frenchtown High School. Approximately 230 residents attended. Law enforcement and fire personnel provided a presentation on the current status of the fire and answered questions. Firefighters working on the line have reported that approximately 0.25 inch of rain has fallen on the fire. The rain has assisted firefighters by cooling down the fire, but it has not put it out. Although the grass and finer fuels have been dampened by the rain, larger fuels will continue to burn.  Today firefighters will continue to focus suppression efforts on the north flank of the fire. Excavators and dozers are..."]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:01:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Evening Update (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5582/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5582/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org   August 20, 20073:00 p.m.  Frenchtown, MT - A community fire information meeting will be held this evening, August 20, at 7:30 p.m. in the Frenchtown High School Gymnasium. Fire and law enforcement authorities will be present to provide an update on the fire situation and answer questions. Good progress has been made today along the west and east flanks of the fire. On the lower end of Mill Creek near Spring Hill Road, crews are continuing to mop up and hold the line. On the east flank of the fire crews are burning out pockets of unburned vegetation along the west side of Highway 93 near Marent Trestle. Citizens are advised that the smoke visible in this area is from this operation. On the north..."]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 20 Aug 2007 18:29:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Public Meeting Tonight (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5577/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5577/</guid><description><![CDATA["A fire information meeting will be held this evening, August 20, at 7:30 p.m. in the Frenchtown High School Gymnasium. Fire and law enforcement authorities will be present to provide an update on the fire situation and answer"]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 20 Aug 2007 16:28:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Morning Update 8-20-07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5556/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5556/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 20, 20078:00 a.m. Frenchtown, MT - Fire officials reported that fire activity increased in the Mill Creek area late yesterday afternoon as the fire burned its way into the bottom of Cottonwood Creek. On the northeast flank of the fire, firefighters made good progress with burnout operations which were done to strengthen firelines and to protect structures in the Evaro area.  Today resources will continue to hold and secure the fireline in the Spring Hill and Mill Creek area. On the north and northeast flanks of the fire resources will continue constructing fireline using existing roads where possible and burning out as needed to reinforce the line. On the east flank of the fire, crews will..."]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 20 Aug 2007 11:24:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Evening Update 8/19/2007 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5539/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5539/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org   August 19, 20076:00 p.m. Frenchtown, MT - Firefighters took advantage of the winds this afternoon to conduct a burnout operation on the northeast flank of the fire south of Evaro. The burnout was done to strengthen firelines and to protect structures in the Evaro area. On the east flank, the fire continues to slowly back down to the highway. Several crews were staged along the highway and around structures to ensure that today&#39;s operations did not ignite any new fires. Fireline is also being constructed on the north flank from east to west.  Evacuations: On the east side of the fire the evacuation includes all property from mile marker 5.5 to mile marker 10 (Joes&#39;s Smoke Ring) on both..."]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 20 Aug 2007 00:25:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Preparedness Request for Residents of Highway 93 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5518/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5518/</guid><description><![CDATA["August 19, 2007 12:00 p.m.  Preparedness Request for Residents of Highway 93  The predicted weather for today has prompted fire and law enforcement officials to issue a preparedness request to residents between mile markers 10 and 12 on Highway 93. A red flag warning is in effect starting late this morning. A cold front will be moving into the area bringing strong winds from the southwest, gusting at times up to 25-30 mph.  The area affected by this request includes both sides of Highway 93 between mile marker 10 and 12, any roads off of Highway 93 in this area and all residences accessed by those roads. Law enforcement teams will be contacting residents and asking them to move any large items (boats, trailers, etc) in case an evacuation is ordered. Livestock should also be moved to an alternate location outside of this area. Residents need to be prepared to evacuate with one hour&#39;s notice and should have any personal items gathered and ready to go. If fire activity increases and..."]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 19 Aug 2007 17:02:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Update 08-19-07 9:00 AM  (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5498/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5498/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org   August 19, 20079:00 a.m.   Frenchtown, MT - Last night intense fire activity and heavy smoke prompted fire and law enforcement officials to evacuate residents in the Evaro area and temporarily close Highway 93 as a precaution. Fire officials report they were able to hold the fire along Thornburg Way and that no structures were lost during this time. Firefighters remained on the line through the night in the Mill Creek and Evaro areas to ensure structures were protected. Today will be a critical weather day for firefighters. A red flag warning is in effect starting late this morning. A cold front will also be moving into the area bringing strong winds from the southwest, gusting at times up to..."]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 19 Aug 2007 12:06:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Evacuation Shelters Open for Evacuees of Black Cat (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5488/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5488/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org   August 18, 2007 8:00 p.m.   MEDIA ADVISORY Shelters Established for Evaro Residents  In response to the recent mandatory evacuation of Evaro, the Red Cross has opened an evacuation center at DeSmet School, 6355 Padre Lane in Missoula. The shelter phone number is 406-217-1270.  The shelter is open to all evacuees of the Black Cat Fire and is providing cots, bedding, water and snacks to evacuees. Meals will be provided if needed. The shelter will be available 24 hours per day as long as necessary. A second shelter has been established on the north end of the closure at the Arlee Community Center at 248 Powwow Road on the east side of Highway 93.   ###"]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 19 Aug 2007 00:38:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Residents to Return to Lower Mill Creek Area (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5485/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5485/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639 (406) 543-6569ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org   August 18, 2007 8:00 p.m.   Residents to Return to Lower Mill Creek Area   Fire and law enforcement officials have determined it is currently safe to allow residents to return home. At 8:00 p.m an evacuation was lifted for the southern portion of Lower Mill Creek Road. Residents will be allowed to re-enter the area north of the Frenchtown Frontage Road to mile marker two, including Spring Hill Road. The area above the Mill Creek bridge will remain closed. The closed area still includes the Mill Creek stables. Residents need to remain ready to re-evacuate within one hour if necessary. It is safe to return, however conditions are subject to change and an evacuation could be..."]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 18 Aug 2007 22:59:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Evacuations in Progress for Evaro, Montana (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5482/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5482/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org   August 18, 2007 7:00 p.m.   Evacuations in progress for Evaro, Montana   This afternoon, gusty winds caused the Black Cat fire to move northeast towards Evaro. As a precaution a mandatory evacuation has been issued. The evacuation area includes all property accessed off of Highway 93 on both sides of the highway from mile post 5.5 (previous evacuation area) to mile post 10 (Joe&#39;s Smoke Ring). Some roads included in the area are Mercer Road, Evaro Road, and Beargrass Mountain Road and all property accessed from these roads.  Highway 93 is now closed from the Wye (exit 96 off of I-90) to mile post 10 at Joe&#39;s Smoke Ring. The highway will be closed until further notice.  The Red Cross is in..."]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 18 Aug 2007 21:01:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Afternoon Update 8/18/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5479/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5479/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org   August 18, 2007 3:00 p.m.   Frenchtown, MT - Winds out of the northeast this morning reduced visibility for aircraft in the Spring Hill area. Firefighters on the ground are continuing to strengthen firelines in this area. This afternoon winds are predicted to be out of the southwest as a cold front approaches the fire area. Resources took advantage of the favorable wind this morning to construct fireline on the northeast flank of the fire from the cell tower south to Highway 93. Helicopters are assisting suppression efforts by dropping water on the east side of the fire&#39;s edge.  The public is reminded to please drive slowly in the vicinity of the fire especially along Highway 93. The speed..."]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 18 Aug 2007 17:25:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Public Meeting Scheduled for Monday Even (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5472/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5472/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black CatFire Information Meeting  Date:Monday, August 20, 2007 Time:7:30 p.m. Location:Frenchtown High School Gym  For more information call (406)"]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 18 Aug 2007 13:44:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Update 08/18/2007 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5470/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5470/</guid><description><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire UpdateRocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hotline Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.ICP Fire Information (406) 543-6639ICP Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org  August 18, 2007 9:00 am  Frenchtown, MT - A community fire information meeting was held last night at the Frenchtown High School. Approximately 600 residents attended. Law enforcement and fire personnel provided a presentation on the current status of the fire and answered questions. Smoke that was visible yesterday was generally within the perimeter as well as the northern portion of the fire. On the west side near Spring Hill Road, firefighters were able to get a dozer line around the fire. The south half of the fire, which was most active two days ago, was patrolled and no visible hot spots were found. Yesterday the east portion of the fire along Highway 93 was active. Crews conducted a burnout..."]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 18 Aug 2007 13:43:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Frenchtown Pond Closure (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5415/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5415/</guid><description><![CDATA["The Frenchtown Pond has been closed to the public until further notice due to helicopter water dipping activity."]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 17 Aug 2007 17:51:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Update 10:30 AM 8/17/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5397/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5397/</guid><description><![CDATA["Fire Information Hotline: (406) 258-3680Hours of operation: 9:00 am-9:00 pm Black Cat Fire Update #1Frenchtown, MT - As a thunderstorm cell passed over the Black Cat Fire northeast of Frenchtown yesterday afternoon, erratic winds caused the fire to make a run to the south and west into residential neighborhoods. As of this morning, the fire is still west of U.S. Highway 93 on its eastern side, but has moved south near Interstate 90 in places and west into the Mill Creek drainage. Structure protection forces from Frenchtown Rural Fire District and other responding fire departments made a valiant effort to save houses and other structures in the fire&#39;s path. Through these efforts, most structures survived the fire. Some structures are known to have been lost, including three vacant mobile homes, one vacant house, and a few outbuildings. Additional structures may have been lost, but at this time a full assessment has not been completed. Additional information will be provided as it..."]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 17 Aug 2007 12:31:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Fire Update 8/17/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5391/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5391/</guid><description><![CDATA["Frenchtown, MT - As a thunderstorm cell passed over the Black Cat Fire northeast of Frenchtown yesterday afternoon, erratic winds caused the fire to make a run to the south and west into residential neighborhoods. As of this morning, the fire is still west of U.S. Highway 93 on its eastern side, but has moved south near Interstate 90 in places and west into the Mill Creek drainage. Structure protection forces from Frenchtown Rural Fire District and other responding fire departments made a valiant effort to save houses and other structures in the fire&#39;s path. Through these efforts, most structures survived the fire. Some structures are known to have been lost, but at this time a full assessment has not been completed by local authorities, and the number of lost structures is unknown.This morning, structural and wildland firefighting forces are regrouping to implement the day&#39;s work. This will include continued protection of any structures that remain threatened while at the..."]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 17 Aug 2007 11:56:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Evening Update 8/16/07 (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5369/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5369/</guid><description><![CDATA["Erattic winds associated with passing thunderstorms sent the Black Cat Fire in several directions today, at times forcing firefighters to retreat to safety zones. At approximately 4:30, the fire began to advance south toward the Fred&#39;s Lane subdivision and west of O&#39;Keefe subdivision. A mandatory evacuation order was issued for residents in the Fred&#39;s Lane subdivision, while O&#39;Keefe residents should be on pre-evacuation notice.The Black Cat Fire was also active to the east, edging closer to Highway 93 north, and prompting the Montana Highway Patrol to intermittently close the Highway. As of 6:00pm, Highway 93 was open for traffic north and southbound.Resources continue to arrive at the fire, with one 20-person crew arriving earlier in the day, and three additional crews expected tonight.Accurate mapping of the Black Cat Fire has been particularly challenging, due largely to the heavy smoke inversion limiting aerial observation. Managers have conservatively estimated..."]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 16 Aug 2007 20:02:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["More Evacuations for Black Cat Fire (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5360/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5360/</guid><description><![CDATA["This afternoon, the Black Cat fire made a move to the south, and officials have issued a mandatory evacuation for approximately 34 homes in the Fred&#39;s Lane subdivision. This is an unexpected move, as winds were predeiced to be out of the southwest this afternoon. The fire is active on the east side as well, prompting the Montana Highway Partol to intermittently close Highway 93 North. Heavy smoke has inhibited mapping efforts, so no new acreage figures are available at this"]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 16 Aug 2007 18:15:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Highway 93 North Closed (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5355/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5355/</guid><description><![CDATA["As of 2:50pm this afternoon, the Montana Highway Patrol has closed Highway 93 North. It&#39;s not known if the closure is due to fire nearing the highway, or poor visibility due to smoke."]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 16 Aug 2007 16:56:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Thunderstorms Begin Hitting Black Cat Fire (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5353/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5353/</guid><description><![CDATA["At approximately 12:30 this afternoon, firefighters were pulled off the line due to a thunderstorm cell moving over the Black Cat Fire. The cell was expected to be mild, and they expected to re-engage shortly after it passed. This will likely be the case for much of the afternoon, with scattered thunderstorms forecast for much of Western Montana. The good new is that it appears the winds will be much milder than originally anticipated, with gusts 15-20 mph.The Colorado Incident Management Team is transitioning today with local managers, and are in the process of establishing a base camp to support the suppression effort.Due to smoke and limited visibility, fire managers were unable to get a more accurate assessment of the size of the Black Cat Fire, which is still conservatively listed at 600 acres. It was predicted that the fire grew an additional 300-400 acres yesterday.There have been no changes to current evacuation orders."]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 16 Aug 2007 15:50:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Wind Shift Pushes Black Cat Fire to South (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5313/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5313/</guid><description><![CDATA["A wind shift at approximately 7:30pm last night pushed the Black Cat Fire slightly southward, causing firefighters quickly reposition resources and patrol residential areas through the night. The fire burned into the drainage just north of Fred&#39;s Lane, but firefighters were confident that retardant and contingency lines established earlier in the day would hold the fire in that drainage overnight. No additional evacuations were ordered as a result of the new movement last night.The Incident Management Team from Colorado arrived throughout the day and last night. They are expected to assume command of the fire this evening or early tomorrow.The Black Cat Fire is still estimated at 600 acres, and 50 personnel are currently working the blaze. No accident of injuries have been"]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 16 Aug 2007 08:05:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Aircraft Help Reinforce Dozer Lines on Black Cat F (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5299/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5299/</guid><description><![CDATA["With the help of helicopters delivering buckets of water and heavy airtankers with fire retardant, firefighters continue to work on the north flank of the Black Cat Fire, using the water and retardant to reinforce dozer lines. The fire continues to press toward the east, but concerted efforts from the air and ground have slowed the fire&#39;s spread today. However, fire activity on the Black Cat Fire has increased with some lifting of the heavy smoke inversion that settled over the fire most of the day.A public meeting is scheduled for tonight at 7:00pm at Frenchtown Rural Fire District Station # 7, on Ladyslipper Lane north of Muralts Travel Plaza. The road is the same one used for access to Jim & Mary&#39;s RV Park.Evacuations are still in place for residents west of Highway 93, north of O&#39;Keefe and south of the Bear Grass Mountain Road.The Missoula County Fire Hotline is staffed from 9am-9pm, for information, call"]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 15 Aug 2007 19:29:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire Update (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5276/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5276/</guid><description><![CDATA["BLACK CAT FIRE AT 600 ACRESIncident Management Team Arriving Tonight August 15, 2007 9:46am, Missoula, Montana - Firefighters and aircraft were busy at work on the Black Cat Fire this morning, hoping to make progress on the blaze, which has grown to 600 acres since its initial detection yesterday afternoon. Engines have responded from fire departments throughout the area, including Frenchtown, Florence, Victor, and Missoula. The are assisted today by DNRC engines and aircraft as well as heavy air tankers from the Northern Rockies Coordination Center.Evacuation orders are still in effect for homes on the west side of Highway 93 North, between Bear Grass Mountain Road and O&#39;Keefe. Officials now estimate approximately 25-30 structures are potentially threatened by the Black Cat Fire. In addition to concerns about structures and the highway 93 corridor, firefighters are concerned about BPA and NWE power lines in the area, as well as a microwave tower site, and a wooden railroad..."]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 15 Aug 2007 13:14:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Public Meeting Set for Tonight (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5272/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5272/</guid><description><![CDATA["Fire officials will hold a public meeting tonight, Wednesday August 15, for people affected by the Black Cat Fire. The meeting will be held at Frenchtown Fire Station 7, at 7:00 pm. The fire hall is located on Ladyslipper Lane off of Highway 93. Fire and Emergency officials will be on-hand to discuss the most current status of the fire and answer some questions. Parking will be limited so please carpool if"]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:42:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Black Cat Fire at 600 Acres (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5252/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/news/article/938/5252/</guid><description><![CDATA["Fire managers estimate the Black Cat Fire is 600 acres, as resources continue to arrive in the Evaro area to battle the blaze, which erupted Tuesday afternoon. Firefighters will have 2 helicopters working the fire this morning, along with 1 heavy airtanker for fire retardant drops as needed. The definition of the avacuated area is as foolows: residents on the west side of highway 93 -- south of Bear Grass Mountain Road and North of O&#39;Keefe.Highway 93 North is open to both north and southbound traffic, but spped limits are reduced to 45 mph in the Evaro area. An Incident Management Team from Colorado is expected in Missoula this afternoon to assume management responsibility"]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 15 Aug 2007 08:48:00 -06:00</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA["Evacuations for Evaro Area (Black Cat Wildland Fire)"]]></title><link>http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5239/</link><guid isPermaLink="true">http://inciweb.org/incident/announcements/article/938/5239/</guid><description><![CDATA["The Missoula County Sheriff&#39;s Office has issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents on the west side of Highway 93 North, between mile markers 3-7. This is a mandatory evacuation. Highway 93 North is open to traffic both north and"]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 14 Aug 2007 21:43:00 -06:00</pubDate></item></channel></rss>