Meagher County Faces Series of Fires

Fires in Montana are a significant concern, especially during the dry summer months. These fires can rapidly spread due to the state's vast forests and grasslands, often fueled by high winds and dry conditions. Meagher County, like many other regions in Montana, is not immune to these threats. Just this week, numerous fires and signs of smoke have been reported in the region, prompting the Meagher County Volunteer Fire Department to respond to several emergencies. On Tuesday, July 23, a fire caused by lightning broke out in the Whitetail Ridge Area, near the National Forest. The fire affected two private landowner properties. The Meagher County Volunteer Fire Department responded on Tuesday evening, and the fire continued into Wednesday, July 24. The fire was contained at approximately 160 acres with a dozer line. The volunteer fire department continued to “mop up” or monitor diligently for the following days. On Wednesday, July 24, the Meagher County Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched again to a different area in the region after a report of smoke was sighted. However, the crews were unable to find any fire and eventually returned home. On Thursday, July 25, the Meagher County Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a fire northwest of Ringling. The flames were partially placated by scattered passing thunderstorms and were eventually contained at an estimated 40 acres with a grader line. The fire crew continued to mop up following the fire. On the afternoon of Friday, July 26, Meagher County Emergency Services were dispatched to a reported vehicle fire near the Bair Reservoir. The truck, a ranch pickup from the nearby Bair Ranch, had caught fire while on the highway from an unknown cause. The Meagher County Volunteer Fire Department responded. The driver, along with the dogs in the pickup, sustained no injuries. The pickup, however, was totaled and burnt to the ground. Photo courtesy of Paige Taylor.

Meagher County has experienced several incidents recently, including a lightning-caused fire in the Whitetail Ridge Area and a vehicle fire near the Bair Reservoir. The Meagher County Volunteer Fire Department has been actively involved in responding to these emergencies, working diligently to contain and manage the fires. These events highlight the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness to address the challenges posed by wildfires in the region. Photo via Meagher County & WSS Fire Facebook Page.