Railroad-Daly Fire (MTBRF)

Wildfire Status:

The Railroad-Daly Fire complex, consisting of the Railroad Fire that ignited on July 25 and the Daly Fire that started on August 18, is currently active southeast of Hamilton, Montana. As of now, the fire has burned approximately 7,820 acres. The Northern Rockies Complex Incident Management Team 5, led by Incident Commander Joe Sampson, has been overseeing firefighting efforts since September 9, 2024. Fire activity has been characterized by creeping and smoldering primarily in stump holes and large diameter fuels, with scattered heat noted throughout the Daly Fire. Fortunately, there is very little threat to nearby values at risk.

In terms of response, a total of 21 personnel are currently engaged in firefighting operations. Area closures remain in effect to ensure public safety and facilitate effective fire management. Fire managers are collaborating with officials from the Bitterroot National Forest to assess the situation and determine if adjustments to the closure boundaries are necessary. Planned actions include ongoing monitoring of fire spread, hazard mitigation along the Skalkaho Highway, and addressing hazards on Forest Service Road 711.

Weather conditions are currently influencing fire activity positively. A high-pressure system is expected to bring slightly drier and milder weather over the next few days, with temperatures rising into the 60s. Relative humidity levels are anticipated to range between 35-50%, and southwest winds will continue at approximately 12 mph, with gusts reaching up to 25 mph. These weather patterns are expected to further decrease fire activity, allowing crews to focus on containment and mitigation efforts effectively.

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Containment History:

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