Surprise Fire (IDNCF)

Wildfire Status:

The Surprise Fire, located in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness near the Idaho/Montana border, was discovered on August 22, 2024. As of now, the fire has grown to approximately 792 acres and is primarily fueled by subalpine fir. The incident is classified as a wildfire caused by lightning. Currently, there are no personnel actively assigned to the fire due to higher priority incidents in the region, which has resulted in the fire remaining unstaffed.

Fire agencies have estimated the containment of the Surprise Fire to take place by December 31, 2024. In addition, there are current trail closures in the area, and there is potential for smoke impacts to nearby communities in the Bitterroot Valley. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates regarding smoke conditions via local resources.

Weather conditions are contributing to the fire's behavior, with blustery west winds expected and dry conditions persisting. Overnight humidity recoveries remain poor, which may affect firefighting efforts. However, a significant weather pattern shift is anticipated, bringing wetter and cooler conditions that could aid in fire containment in the coming days.

Visit Inciweb Incident Page for more information. Information on this page is provided for informational purposes only.

Fire Growth History: