Critical Fire Weather Returns to Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes Fires as Containment Increases

WISDOM, Mont. — Firefighters are preparing for a return of critical fire weather Sunday as warm, dry and windy conditions increase the potential for renewed activity on the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires in Southwest Montana.

The Sand Creek Fire, located approximately 7.5 miles southeast of Wisdom, is estimated at 35,510 acres and 58% contained.

The Bobcat Lakes Fire, approximately 13 miles southwest of Wise River, is estimated at 10,886 acres and 72% contained.

The smaller Skull Fire, eight miles southeast of Wisdom and about one mile east of Odell Lake, remains at approximately 68 acres and 0% containment.

A total of 235 personnel are assigned to the Bobcat Lakes and Sand Creek fires under Incident Commanders Richard Griffin and Brian Gorwitz, trainee.

Winds Could Gust Up to 35 MPH

Critical fire weather is forecast across the fire area Sunday as forest fuels continue to dry.

Relative humidity is expected to fall into the low 20% range, while southwest winds could gust between 30 and 35 mph ahead of an approaching cold front.

The front is expected to shift winds to the northwest Monday morning. Previously forecast chances for rain have also diminished.

Officials said the warmer and windier conditions are increasing fire activity within the interior of the existing fire footprints. Firefighters continue mop-up and suppression repair operations while remaining prepared to respond quickly if conditions change.

Sand Creek Fire

On the Sand Creek Fire, crews are patrolling fire lines and maintaining pumps and sprinkler systems around areas of heat along the southwestern edge of the fire.

Construction of direct control line continues along Steel Fox Road, while heavy equipment operations are progressing along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway in coordination with resource advisors.

Suppression repair work is also underway in the Grasshopper Creek drainage.

Bobcat Lakes and Skull Fires

On the Bobcat Lakes Fire, firefighters continue chipping, removing debris and conducting suppression repair along Forest Service Roads 1290 and 1299.

Crews are also actively patrolling the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, Lacy Creek Road and existing direct fire lines.

Activity on the Skull Fire remains minimal, with crews continuing to patrol and monitor the fire.

Aircraft remain available to assist firefighters with water or retardant drops, reconnaissance flights and personnel transportation if needed.

Scenic Byway and Forest Areas Remain Closed

Despite increasing containment, several closures remain in effect.

The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway remains closed, along with affected National Forest System areas, roads and trails. The closure includes Sawtooth Lake Trail #195.

A Temporary Flight Restriction also remains in effect over the fire area.

Additional closure information is available through the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest website.