Evacuations ordered near Montana wildfire

Fire near Olney forces evacuations

Residents near Olney, Montana, are being evacuated as a 3,000-acre wildfire nears the area.

Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino has issued a mandatory evacuation for residents in these areas near the East Fork fire:

• North of mile marker 146 on Highway 93 to mile marker 157.9 -- Lincoln/Flathead County line

• Residents of Good Creek Road, and those who access Good Creek west to the Lincoln County line

  The pre-evacuation order issued Aug.17 is still in effect including Olney
  

  A mandatory evacuation means there is a strong probability of wildfire moving into the targeted area. Ash and fire debris are likely and can spread with the high winds expected later today, Heino said. Residents and visitors in the area should respond quickly and determine steps to secure your home, pets, livestock, and family, the Flathead County sheriff's office said.

  Members of the Flathead County Sheriff's Office are going door to door.

  The American Red Cross has established a shelter in Columbia Falls. If you plan to use the shelter, call the Red Cross in advance at 1-800-733-2767 prior to your arrival.

  https://flathead.mt.gov/department-directory/oes/emergency-management/east-fork-fire-information page.

• For more information, call 406-758-2111.