A wildland fire was reported at about 2 p.m. on Monday several miles northeast of Lincoln.
Officials say it is near the Elk Trail landing strip, and people living in the area have been evacuated as a precautionary measure.
There are reports that at least one cabin has been destroyed by the fire.
There have been no reports of injuries at this point.
Firefighters from Lincoln and the Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation have been working to extinguish the fire.
A DNRC helicopter is making water-bucket drops from nearby Krohn Lake.
The fire is estimated to have burned about 10 acres, and is being fanned by gusty winds.
The cause of the fire is not yet known.
We will update you as we get more information.
The DNRC released the following information at 5:55 pm:
The Elk Trail Loop Fire is currently in unified command under the Lincoln Fire department and the DNRC State of Montana. Evacuations have been ordered in the Elk Trail area. At this time fire officials are assessing in the case of structure loss.
Resources on Fire: On scene are 4 helicopters, 1 air tanker, a twenty person hand crew, and multiple multi-agency engines.
Special Concerns: Please stay clear of the Copper Creek area up to the intersection of Highway 200. Be cautious of fire traffic entering and exiting the area.
(1st Report, 2:35 p.m.) We have received reports of a wildfire threatening several homes northeast of Lincoln.
The fire is reported to be burning near Elk Trail Loop, east of Lincoln and several miles north of Highway 200.
The fire is said to have already burned about 10 acres.
Gusty winds are fanning the fire; the cause of the fire is not yet known.
On June 29th, Lewis & Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton said that open burning is prohibited in the Lincoln area due to rising temperatures and dry conditions.
We have a reporter headed to the area and will keep you updated as we get more details.
