Arrastra Fire burning near Trapper Mountain

SEPT. 9 – The Arrastra Fire is burning in dead and down timber north of Helmville by Trapper Mountain on the Helena-Lewis & Clark National Forest. The fire is 11.75 acres, 0% contained, and under Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation wildland fire protection. Reported on Tuesday, September 6, the fire was caused by lightning and aggressive suppression from the air was employed initially. Aviation use on Wednesday also helped to keep fire growth minimal from the high wind event in the afternoon. The winds did push the fire beyond the fireline in spots so crews will be focused on re-establishing fireline. A combination of DNRC and U.S. Forest Service engines and hand crew modules are committed to the fire, supported by aviation as needed. Use of large air tankers (LATs) is planned for today before afternoon winds occur. No structures are threatened at this time but there are structures within one mile of the fire.

Forecasted weather for today includes temperatures in the low 70s and northwest winds with potential gusts up to 20 mph. Winds will come out of the north this evening and be light and variable out of the east-northeast Friday morning, with a slight chance of precipitation.

Future updates on the fire will occur as needed (e.g., conditions on the fire change dramatically, etc.).

Fire Behavior: The fire is active and burning in dead and down timber on a ridge top.

Size & Containment: 11.75 acres, 0% contained.

Weather: Northwest winds, gusts up to 20 mph Thursday, shifting to light, east-northeast winds with slight chance of precipitation on Friday.

Planned Actions: Full suppression from the air and ground.

Evacuations & Closures: No evacuations ordered at this time.