WEST GLACIER, MONT. -The Avalanche Wildland Fire is estimated to be approximately 25 acres and located on Mount Brown, near Avalanche Lake on the west side of Glacier National Park. The Avalanche Lake Trail is closed until further notice.
Smoke was reported on Saturday, September 1 at approximately 2:30 p.m. and the cause of the fire is believed to be lightning. Twenty six fire fighters and aerial water drops are being used to suppress the fire. Firefighters are from Glacier National Park, Flathead National Forest and Kootenai National Forest, in addition to eight smoke jumpers. Two US Forest Service helicopters and a contract helicopter are being used to drop water and for aerial observation. A Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation helicopter was used to assist with aerial operations on Saturday.
Firefighters are working in rugged terrain with some windy conditions, thus limiting the use of some aerial operations. Smoke is visible throughout various locations in the park, and in some locations in the Flathead Valley.
-NPS-
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
