Single Publication

Johnson Fire News Release

Sunday, September 1st, 2024

Contact Fire Information: 406-401-0286 or 
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InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/mtbrf-johnson-fire

Nevada Type 3 - Incident Management Team#1
Location:  3 miles South of Springer Memorial Community, in the East Fork
Start Date: 7/25/2024   
Cause: Lightning
Size: 1628
Containment: 1%
Resources on site: Total personnel: 98, 5 Hand Crews, 3 Engines, 1 Heavy Equipment

CURRENT STATUS – Johnson Fire has forced evacuation orders on Little East Fork Road. Ravalli County Sheriff Steve Holton said that residents on Little East Fork Road were issued the directive due to fire growth and activity of the Johnson Fire. These evacuations, consisting of 5 residences, were completed last night and with full cooperation of the homeowners. Springer and Bonanza communities remain secure at this time.

The fire’s intensity elevated at around 3pm yesterday. Spotting and crowning were observed on multiple flanks of the incident. Torching and continual backing and creeping continued overnight. The fire is most active on the north front, where it has crossed Little East Fork Rd. Firefighters patrolled East Fork Rd and Springer Memorial Community throughout the night. Fire operations have been successful and are currently holding.

WEATHER – A fire weather watch has been issued for Monday. Hot, dry and windy conditions are expected with potential for thunderstorms in the afternoon.

CLOSURES - A closure order (24-D2-03) from the Forest Service went into effect 8/30/2024 at 0600 for the area surrounding the Johnson Fire. This is not an evacuation notice. The closure order closes Forest Service roads and trails in and surrounding the fire for public safety and to allow firefighters and crews to conduct their work without interference.