Roaring Lion Fire Battle Continues

Winds blew through the Bitterroot Valley Tuesday afternoon and evening, August 2, causing some increased burning at the Roaring Lion Fire southwest of Hamilton.

The fire has burned over 5 miles since starting Sunday afternoon. Over 200 firefighters are on the fire, with more resources being added daily, with the fire being a high priority in Montana.

U.S. Highway 93 was closed for a time during the evening Tuesday, but reopened around midnight with a traffic speed limit of 45 miles per hour and a request from the authorities for motorists to not stop and take photos, causing congestion for fire traffic.

The crews also spent time putting out a human-caused fire about 4 miles up the Lost Horse Road Tuesday. the fire was kept to quarter acre. The fire is being investigated by law enforcement.

A reminder to make sure your campfire is completely out before leaving your campsite.