Morning Lightning Storm Starts Fire West of Victor

A morning thunderstorm brought lightning bolts to the ground, one of which started a tree on fire west of Victor Wednesday morning, July 3. The Bitterroot National Forest and the Victor Volunteer Fire Department responded to the blaze, which was on private land, according the Ravalli County Sheriff's Office.

The fire did not spread and was smoking in the afternoon. No structures were in danger. The fire was reminder that Mother Nature is very efficient at starting fires in the woods - there's no need for humans to do it. So, do NOT leave your campfire unattended, even for a short time. Make sure the coals are cold to the touch before you leave. If in doubt, pour more water and dirt on the fire. Other fires were started by the lightning storms this week. If you see smoke, report it. And, NO FIREWORKS in the Bitterroot National Forest.