Two wildfires burning near Wisdom and Wise River in Montana have grown rapidly under hot, dry and windy conditions, prompting officials to close the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway for safety.
The Bobcat Lakes Fire and Sand Creek Fire are both burning with zero percent containment as firefighters work to slow their spread and protect nearby areas.
The Bobcat Lakes Fire, which began July 31, was estimated at 4,336 acres. It is burning about 13 miles southwest of Wise River and 12 miles east of Wisdom.
The Sand Creek Fire started August 1 and has grown to approximately 5,257 acres. The fire is located about 7.5 miles southeast of Wisdom.
Together, the two fires have burned nearly 9,600 acres.
Hot, dry weather and strong winds contributed to rapid fire growth Thursday. Relative humidity dropped into the single digits, while wind gusts reached up to 30 mph. Firefighters observed the fires spreading primarily toward the south.
The conditions have also created concerns for people living and traveling in the area. The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway was scheduled to close at 8 a.m. Friday, August 7, from Sheep Creek in the north to Grand Vista in the south.
Officials also warned vehicles towing trailers to avoid the closure area because limited space could make turning around difficult.
The Sand Creek Fire has produced spot-driven fire spread toward the Bear Lakes area, prompting plans for a livestock evacuation.
Firefighters are continuing structure-protection operations along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway while widening contingency lines around threatened areas.
Authorities have not yet determined the causes of either wildfire.
With both fires remaining at zero percent containment and weather conditions continuing to support rapid fire growth, firefighters are expected to maintain suppression and protection efforts as the situation develops.
Quick Facts
Location: Southwest Montana near Wisdom and Wise River
Fires: Bobcat Lakes Fire and Sand Creek Fire
Combined area burned: Nearly 9,600 acres
Bobcat Lakes Fire: 4,336 acres, 0% contained
Sand Creek Fire: 5,257 acres, 0% contained
Cause: Undetermined for both fires
Weather: Hot, dry and windy
Wind gusts: Up to 30 mph
Road impact: Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway closed
Additional impact: Livestock evacuation planned
Status: Both wildfires remain active
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