Nevada Lake Fire (MTMTS)

Wildfire Status:

The Nevada Lake Fire, currently burning in open grass and timber on the Nevada Lake Wildlife Management Area and private land eight miles east of Helmville, Montana, has been completely contained. The fire size has been revised down to 190 acres from an initial estimate of 208 acres due to more accurate GPS mapping. The incident, which began as a prescribed burn on October 14, 2024, escalated when it escaped containment lines, prompting a full wildfire response by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).

As of now, firefighting efforts have been successful, achieving 100% containment of the fire perimeter. Fire activity is minimal, and crews are in the process of completing mop-up operations, which involve extinguishing residual heat and hotspots within 300-400 feet of the control line. This meticulous process includes techniques like "cold trailing," where firefighters physically inspect and feel for heat in the soil. The DNRC plans to patrol the area regularly to ensure complete safety and control.

Weather conditions have been favorable for firefighting, with no current threats of extreme fire behavior. The emphasis is now on securing the area and preventing any flare-ups, as local resources continue to monitor the situation. The fire's origin was categorized as human-caused, stemming from an escaped prescribed burn, highlighting the importance of careful management in fire-prone regions.

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Containment History:

Fire Growth History: