Crews make progress on wildfires as dangerous heat looms

JOSHUA MURDOCK

Containment has increased on a handful of wildfires around western Montana as sweltering August temperatures are forecast to return.

The National Weather Service on Monday issued a heat advisory from midday Tuesday through Thursday night for northwest Montana, the Missoula area and the Bitterroot Valley, as well as central and northern Idaho. The agency predicted daily high temperatures from 95–105 degrees Fahrenheit. Fire managers on some area wildfires stated that the weather could cause red-flag conditions, indicating critical wildfire weather, this week.

The National Weather Service warned that the temperatures could cause heat-related illness: “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”

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According to forecasts Monday from the National Weather Service, Missoula was predicted to hit a daily high temperature of 101 degrees Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, before dropping to 95 degrees Friday, 87 degrees Saturday and 86 degrees Sunday. Overnight

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