Updated: July 10, 12:30 p.m.
The first notable wildfire of the year in Northwest Montana is burning on the Flathead Indian Reservation near Arlee.
The lightning-sparked Arlee Northwest Fire has burned 24 acres about 2 miles northwest of Arlee, according to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Division of Fire. The fire is currently burning in grass and timber.
As of Wednesday at noon, the fire is about 80 percent contained.
Two engines and an eight-person hand crew have been dispatched to try and contain the fire.
On Tuesday, prior to the fire being reported, CSKT officials asked residents to be vigilant as vegetation continues to dry out. Fire danger is currently moderate but getting “closer” to high, officials said.