WEST GLACIER, MONT. -The current size estimate of the Avalanche Wildland Fire is approximately 45 acres. This size estimate is due to more accurate mapping of the fire, not fire growth. The wildland fire is located on Mount Brown, near Avalanche Lake on the west side of Glacier National Park. The Avalanche Lake Trail is closed until further notice.
Aerial water drops have been effective in suppressing the fire, along with about 25 fire firefighters constructing fireline. Firefighters from Glacier National Park, Flathead National Forest, and Kootenai National Forest, in addition to eight smoke jumpers, are working in partnership to suppress the fire. Firefighters are working in rugged terrain, with firefighter safety as a priority.
Smoke was reported on Saturday, September 1 at approximately 2:30 p.m. and the cause of the fire is believed to be lightning. 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
