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Late-night aerial mapping reveals the wildfire known as the Colt Fire, tearing through the landscape northwest of Seeley Lake, has drastically amplified in size, practically doubling from its last reported dimensions.

Fire Grows With Intense Heat Surges

The Colt Fire, according to fresh data obtained from a midnight flight, has ballooned from a substantial 1,575 acres to a staggering 2,927 acres. As it devours the landscape, the wildfire appears to be growing unencumbered, with containment efforts currently sitting at 0%.

Over 400 firefighting personnel, tirelessly battling the blaze on the ground, are witnessing the fire expand in all directions, but predominantly south, southwest and southeast. The southern section of the fire is experiencing a powerful surge of heat, akin to a volcanic eruption's intensity.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings Issued

With the Colt Fire spreading rapidly, the Missoula County Sheriff's Office has deemed it necessary to issue multiple evacuation orders and warnings. Residents living along Highway 83, between mile markers 31 and 27, which includes Beaver Creek Road at the junction of Highway 83 and those in Rovero Flats, are under an evacuation order.

Highway 83's residences, starting from mile marker 27, the southern end of Rovero Flats, to mile marker 25.5 (where the West Fork of the Clearwater Road intersects with Highway 83) have been issued an evacuation warning. Beaver Creek Road, near the summit, is also subject to this warning.

Another evacuation warning echoes for residents on Lake Inez's northern and southern extremities. However, the residences on the east side of Lake Inez, lining Highway 83, are yet to be under any warning or order.

Evacuation Shelter Prepared

Those who have been evacuated due to the raging Colt Fire and are seeking shelter are urged to contact the Red Cross at (406) 215-1514. The organization has an evacuation shelter prepared in Ovando, ready to welcome evacuees if required.