UPDATED: Evacuation order issued near Olney in red-flag wind

A forecast full of contradictory conditions has wildland firefighters wondering what’s next as a record-setting August nears its close.

The shifting winds prompted a mandatory evacuation order for people living near the East Fork fire between Olney and Striker along the Flathead/Lincoln county border near Highway 93. Sheriff’s deputies were going door-to-door in the area Friday afternoon. Specific information about the affected evacuation area was available on the Sheriff Department website.

“A Mandatory Evacuation means there is a strong probability of wildfire moving into the targeted area,” Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino said in an email on Friday afternoon. “Ash and fire debris are likely and can spread with the high winds expected later today. Residents and visitors in the area should respond quickly and determine steps to secure your home, pets, livestock, and family. Residents, landlords, hotels, and businesses in this area should also have a plan in place to evacuate.

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“Fire is unpredictable and can change rapidly,” Heino continued. “We cannot predict how much time people will have to evacuate, road conditions, etc. We strongly recommend that if you are in or near the evacuation area that

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