Wildfire near Frenchtown grows to 1,034 acres, 14% contained

FRENCHTOWN, Mont. — Firefighters battling a lightning-caused wildfire burning about seven miles southwest of Frenchtown in the Rock Creek area made significant progress Thursday as favorable weather helped crews gain ground on the blaze. The fire, which started July 24, 2026, has burned 1,034 acres and was 14% contained. A total of 232 personnel are assigned, including six hand crews, six engines, two helicopters, three dozers and six water tenders. All spot fires on the south side of Rock Creek are now contained, and crews continued mopping up remaining heat along the south flank. Direct handline construction on the west flank was completed and is holding.

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