The State Creek Fire, a lightning-caused fire northeast of Whitehall, is now 50 percent contained at 3,140 acres.
The increase in size is attributed to burnout operations over the weekend.
The fire was detected on August 29, 2020. This fire is located on the Butte Ranger District in an area difficult for firefighters to access due to rough terrain, numerous snags, and a significant amount of dead and down trees.
Officials said some of the strategic objectives for this fire include protect private residences and structures, protect heritage sites, keep fire off private land when possible, minimize effects to fish populations and minimize the spread of noxious and invasive weeds.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon to 9 p.m. today. Predictions are that very dry conditions will develop over the fire area. Increased southwesterly winds are expected which should rid some of the smoke causing a high Haines Index (HI). HI Is a numerical value that indicates the potential for large wildfires to experience extreme fire behavior. Very dry conditions will remain through Monday night. Smoke is also expected to return Monday night and Tuesday. Fire activity may increase with these predictions.
Crews continue to hold and improve the existing fire perimeter. Helicopters may be used, when visibility allows, to prevent fire on the northside of FS Road 8572 from spreading east. Prep work is being implemented to stop any fire progression to the south.
The Forest Service (FS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) issued closure orders for the area around the fire including roads and trails. A Temporary Flight Restriction is in effect for the fire area. Please check InciWeb for the current order if recreating in the area.
