Wildfires Prompt Evacuation At Montana’s Tongue River State Park

Wildfires near Tongue River Reservoir State Park have led to a voluntary evacuation of visitors on Saturday evening. The fires, fueled by continued hot weather and resulting in poor air quality, have prompted officials to advise against travel to the park for those with reservations or plans to visit.

Two major wildfires are burning in southeastern Montana: the 3,000-acre Deadman Fire and the 3,300-acre Anderson Fire, both caused by lightning. These fires are located roughly 30 miles southeast of Ashland and near the state park.

Big Horn County officials recommended the evacuation, leading to the departure of most campers and visitors. The current conditions suggest that visitation is unsafe and could worsen.

Montana is staring down another tough wildfire season, and it could really shake things up for wildlife, infrastructure, and the economy across the state.

The wildfires are a big deal for the state's wildlife. When fires sweep through forests and grasslands, animals lose their habitats and food sources. You might see deer and elk on the move, trying to find new places to live and eat. Smaller animals and birds have it even tougher because they can't cover as much ground. Aquatic life gets hit too, as ash and debris can pollute rivers and lakes, making it hard for fish to survive.

Then there's the infrastructure. Fires can destroy homes, businesses, and public buildings. Power lines and cell towers are at risk, which can lead to blackouts and communication breakdowns. Roads and bridges can also get damaged, complicating travel and emergency response. The cost of fixing all this can be staggering, stretching local budgets to the limit.

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The economic impact is another major concern, threatening tourism, agriculture,  and forestry services that many from both inside Montana and across the rest of the nation enjoy.