All evacuations have been lifted. Area closures still in place until further notice.

The lightning-caused Sucker Creek Fire, which is currently burning in the Sucker Creek area on the Lincoln Ranger District, is now approximately 2790 acres, and 55% contained. The fire is in very rugged, steep terrain and burning in a stand of tree snags. The fire is actively burning away from the town of Lincoln, and into the 2003 Snow Talon fire area. Smoke will be highly visible throughout the day.

 

Firefighters hold the line against the Sucker Creek Fire on the Helena Nat'l Forest north of Lincoln. (USFS Photo)
Firefighters hold the line against the Sucker Creek Fire on the Helena Nat'l Forest north of Lincoln. (USFS Photo)
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The final evacuated area, Landers Fork, is now open for residents to return to their homes. The road block on Copper Creek Road (Forest Road 330) has been moved north to the junction of Copper Creek Road and Sucker Creek Road (Forest Road 1800). As there is still active fire, fire crews and heavy equipment working in the burn area, please show extra caution when driving Copper Creek Road.

All other area closures, Sucker Creek Road from the forest boundary to the junction of Copper Creek Road, Copper Creek Road north of the junction of Sucker Creek Road, and Snow Bank Trail (#418), will remain in place until further notice. The Lewis & Clark County Sheriff’s Department patrolled the residential area during the evacuation and for safety reasons will maintain a presence in the area until further notice.

The mop up of hot spots is continuing to progress, as is the chipping of brush along the southern containment line. The southeast edge of the fire, where the burn out activity was conducted a few days ago, is still hot and smoldering. Personnel are patrolling and watching for spot fires along the containment line. Some equipment and firefighters are being released to other fires.

The weather is expected to be warm and dry over the next few days.

Cooperators: Include Lewis & Clark County Sheriff, Lewis & Clark County, USFS Helena National Forest, Montana DNRC, Lincoln Rural Fire District, Montana Highway Patrol, Montana DOT, and Northwestern Energy.

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