Bridger Foothills Fire: Tuesday Morning Update
The Bridger Foothills Fire moves into its fifth-day today. Firefighters did receive some welcome rain and snow on Labor Day Monday, but the fire continues to burn on the east side of the Bridger Mountains.
Here is what we know on this Tuesday, Sept. 8th, about the fire:
- According to the United States Forest Service's Inciweb.com website, the fire is now approaching 7,200 acres.
- On Monday night, the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office lifted the evacuation order for some residents who had been evacuated by the Bridger Foothills Fire. Those residents can return home permanently unless otherwise notified.The Kelly Canyon road closure has been moved from I-90 to the intersection of Bridger Canyon Road. Kelly Canyon and Moffitt Gulch residents may return home permanently unless otherwise notified.The Jackson Creak road closure has been moved from I-90 to the intersection of Jackson Creek Road and Laughing Horse Lane. Residents between those two intersections may return home permanently unless otherwise notified.Bridger Canyon Road remains closed from Jackson Creek Road to Brackett Creek Road.
- The weather today is expected to be partly cloudy, with highs around 50. Winds will be light, around 5 to 10 mph. The fire danger is expected to rise as the week progresses, with temps back into the 80s this weekend.
- More man-power has been added to fight the fire. Right now there are currently close to 150 fire personnel fighting this blaze.
- Mixed conifer stands at higher elevations have not burned in recorded history and consequently have heavy fuel loads. Fine fuels currently unavailable due to cooler temperature.
- Donations of water, Gatorade, and snacks have been rolling in almost non-stop since Saturday. The Gallatin County Sheriff's Office reports that they have plenty of food/water supplies for firefighting crews at this time. If you would like to donate either money or time, here is how you can do that:The creation of the Bridger Foothills Fire Relief Fund is a joint effort between the Southwest Montana Community Organizations Active in Disaster (SWMT COAD), Greater Gallatin United Way, and One Valley Community Foundation to streamline financial support and direct it to people affected by the fire who need funding most. Funding will also be distributed to agencies supporting fire relief efforts.
If you would like to make a monetary donation to the Bridger Foothills Fire Relief Fund, text BRIDGERS to 91999. You can also make a donation online using the button below.
- If you have questions about the, please call the Help Center at 211 or 406-586-3333. Please only call 911 if you have a direct emergency.