Pentagon Fire (MTFNF)

Wildfire Status:

The Pentagon Fire, currently active near the Spotted Bear Pass in Montana, covers approximately 62 acres and was ignited by lightning from a dry thunderstorm on July 24, 2024. The fire is situated in steep and rugged terrain, approximately 0.5 miles south of the Pentagon Cabin Administrative Site. While it does not currently threaten the Continental Divide Trail, fire managers are prepared to issue closure orders if conditions worsen. Initial smoke observations were reported by lookout stations on August 2, leading to a reconnaissance flight that confirmed the fire's location.

In response to the fire, a small team of five personnel has been deployed to the area. Firefighters have implemented a proactive strategy focused on public safety and the protection of critical values while preserving the natural landscape of the Bob Marshall Wilderness. They have successfully wrapped historic buildings at the Pentagon Cabin site with fire-resistant materials and have conducted fuel reduction operations around the site. A Type 2 helicopter has assisted in monitoring and managing the fire, performing water drops to suppress its spread.

Recent wet weather has significantly reduced fire activity, with recon flights on August 10 indicating only a single smoke plume within the fire's perimeter. As of now, fire managers continue to monitor the situation with regular flights, but all personnel have withdrawn from the Pentagon Cabin site following the completion of protective measures. There are currently no plans for further updates unless fire activity escalates. The estimated containment date for the fire is set for October 31, 2024.

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