Black Cat Fire Update 8 28 07
Incident: Black Cat Wildland Fire
Released: 8/28/2007
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 28, 2007
9:00 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's activities. Last night engines were assigned to the line to monitor the fire'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 structures.
Today crews will continue putting out smoldering logs, stumps, and debris in the Frog Creek area and upper Mill Creek. Smoke will still be visible to the public for some time. Downsizing of firefighting resources will occur over the next few days.
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.
Traffic Control: The Montana Highway Patrol and Missoula County Sheriff's Department are patrolling the area in front of the Incident Command Post on Highway 93. Motorists should adhere to the posted speed limit. Residents are reminded to not stop along the highway due to heavy fire traffic and the additional traffic due to school being in session.
Fire Statistics:
Start Date: August 14, 2007
Size: estimated 11,754 acres.
Contained: 70 percent
Cause: Lightning
Total Personnel: Approximately 543
Resources include: 4 Type 1 handcrew, 9 Type 2 handcrews, 29 engines, 4 dozers, 13 watertenders, overhead personnel, and aerial resources.
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