CHINOOK, Mont. (NMB) – With extremely dry weather across the Hi-Line, wildfires are becoming a common occurrence.
Kraig Hansen, Chinook Volunteer Fire Chief, says they’ve responded to around a dozen fires across Blaine County the last five or so days.
Most of the fires have been held down to around an acre, but one earlier this week was estimated at seven acres.
The first report of that fire, located in the Hungry Hollow area south of Chinook, came in at around 4 PM Tuesday.
Multiple units responded to the scene along with Chinook, including the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Harlem Fire and Havre Fire. Ranchers in the area also came to help out.
The fire, which burned grass and timber on top of a ridge, was controlled by 5 PM on Wednesday. Crews were continuing to monitor the fire on Thursday morning to make sure it wouldn’t reignite.
That fire, as well as the others recently reported, are all believed to be caused by lightning.
No structures or property have been threatened by any of the fires.
Hansen urges the public to be extremely careful as these dry conditions persist. If you see smoke, do not hesitate to contact local authorities.
In addition, Hansen notes a burn ban was issued for Blaine County on July 31st by the County Commissioners.
