What is the name and location of the wildfire?

There are numerous wildfires in Montana threatening lives and impacting air quality as of August 1, 2023 (1)(2). These include:
• Bowles Creek Wildfire: Three miles southwest of Skalkaho Pass in the Bowles Creek drainage.
• Colt Fire: 12 miles northwest of Seeley Lake.
• Niarada Fire: Approximately 11 miles west of Elmo.
• Lolo Fire: Outskirts of Lolo, south of Missoula.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?

Wildfires in Montana are affecting air quality in Bozeman, Butte, Helena, Great Falls, and Missoula. The fires are also affecting specific regions and valleys in Montana in the Bitterroot Range.

What is the current containment status of the wildfire?

The current containment status of the Bowles Creek Wildfire is at 3% (3). The estimated containment date is October 15, 2023.

The Colt Fire containment status is at 8% (4). The estimated containment date is September 29, 2023.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders have been issued for the Nirada Fire, from the top of the Pass on Browns Meadow Road South to Hwy 28, Nirada. This mandatory evacuation also includes Kofford Ridge Road. An evacuation warning is in effect for Hubbart Dam Road/NF-544 from the intersection of Crossover Road South to Hwy 28.

Please note that the information provided is based on the data available up to August 1, 2023. The situation may have evolved since then, and it's essential to refer to the latest updates from local authorities and official sources for real-time information and safety measures.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.