A wildfire burning outside of Seeley Lake has grown to 200 acres and an evacuation order has been issued for the area.

The Colt Fire is active and burning in heavy dead and down timber west of Colt Lake, approximately 15 miles northwest of Seeley Lake. The fire was sparked by lightning on Monday, July 17, and was first detected the following morning.

Fire managers report the blaze grew late Thursday afternoon and crews had to be pulled from the fire due to the increased activity. No injuries were reported.

The fire is currently burning in a remote area and no structures are threatened at this time. However, the evacuation order remains in effect for the following areas:

• Colt Lake
• Birch Creek
• Moose Creek
• West Fork of the Blackfoot River

Residents in the evacuated areas are asked to leave immediately and go to a safe location. The Red Cross has opened a shelter at the Seeley Lake High School.

Firefighters are expected to be back on the fire line on Friday morning and will be aided by aircraft. A Complex Incident Management Team has been ordered and will take over battling the fire on Sunday, July 23.

The Colt Fire is one of several wildfires burning in Montana this week. The state is under an extreme fire danger and residents are urged to be careful with fire.

The Colt Fire is a reminder of the dangers of wildfires in Montana. The state is under an extreme fire danger and residents are urged to be careful with fire.

The fire is also a testament to the hard work of firefighters who are working to protect lives and property. The firefighters have been battling the fire in difficult conditions and they have made significant progress.

The Colt Fire is a reminder that wildfires can happen anywhere, even in remote areas. Residents of Montana should be prepared for the possibility of a wildfire and they should have a plan in place in case they need to evacuate.

The Colt Fire is a serious wildfire that has the potential to cause significant damage. However, the firefighters are working hard to contain the fire and they have made significant progress. Residents of the area should be prepared for the possibility of an evacuation, but they should also be confident that the firefighters are doing everything they can to protect their homes and property.

Update (July 24, 2023): The Colt Fire has continued to grow and is now estimated to be 300 acres. The evacuation order remains in effect for the areas listed above. Firefighters are continuing to battle the fire and are expected to make progress today.

Update (July 25, 2023): The Colt Fire has been contained at 300 acres. The evacuation order has been lifted for all areas. Firefighters will continue to monitor the fire for any signs of flare-up.

©️ Rocky Mountain Dispatch 2023