Fire Watch

Wildfire burning near Stevensville holds steady

Posted: Aug 2, 2012 12:32 PM by MTN News

STEVENSVILLE- The South Alder Fire burning 10 miles east of Stevensville is holding at about 30 acres despite an active fire day on Wednesday.

Boyd Hartwig with the Lolo National Forest reports that there were several spot fires Wednesday, but firefighters were successful in finding, and putting them out.

Helicopter bucket work, retardant drops, and handline construction also took place Wednesday and crews plan to set up handlines on Thursday.

A cold front is forecast to be moving into the area today with a Red Flag Warning starting at about mid-day into Thursday evening.

Strong, sustained winds associated with the cold front are expected to produce active fire behavior and firefighters are preparing for the increased winds, according to Hartwig.

Three crews, 10 Lolo Hot Shot crew members, two engines, and two helicopters are working on the blaze and Forest Road #4267 remains closed.