Black Cat Morning Update 8-27-07
Incident: Black Cat Wildland Fire
Released: 8/27/2007
Black Cat Fire Update
Rocky Mountain Incident Management Team- Kim Martin IC
Black Cat Fire Information (406) 543-6639
Information Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Information is also available at: http://www.inciweb.org
August 27, 2007
9:00 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 fire area. Downsizing of firefighting resources will occur over the next few days as resources are being released to other fires with critical resource needs.
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 have been weakened by fire may fall at any time. Roads will be dusty and visibility may be limited with the increased fire related traffic on the roads.
Preparedness Notice Lifted at 6 a.m. Today: As of 6 a.m. Monday August 27, the one-hour preparedness notice is lifted for all areas along Highway 93 and upper Mill Creek. The roads leading into the fire area are still open to residents only.
Traffic Control: The Montana Highway Patrol and Missoula County Sheriff's Department are patrolling the area in front of the Incident Command Post on Hwy 93. Motorists should adhere to the posted speed limit. Do not stop along the highway to view the fire since heavy fire traffic continues along Highway 93.
Fire Restrictions: With Labor Day weekend quickly approaching, the public is reminded to check fire restrictions for their destination. Remember... "The wildfire that does not start is the one that does not have to be fought".
Fire Statistics:
Start Date: August 14, 2007
Size: estimated 11,754 acres.
Contained: 60 percent
Cause: Lightning
Total Personnel: Approximately 762
Resources include: 9 Type 1 handcrew, 10 Type 2 handcrews, 31 engines, 7 dozers, 14 watertenders, overhead personnel, and aerial resources.
NOTE: Starting today, we will be sending out one update daily.
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