HAMILTON, Mont. — Two lightning-sparked wildfires burning near Hamilton are prompting road closures as firefighters work to take advantage of cooler weather.
The Butterfly Fire is burning about 12 miles east of Hamilton. It started at 4:28 p.m. on Aug. 1, 2026, and has grown to 50 acres.
The cause is lightning. A total of 85 personnel are assigned, along with one engine, one helicopter, two hand crews and two dozers.
The Black Bear Fire is located just east of Forest Road 75 and south of Highway 38, near the Black Bear Campground. It started at 6:03 p.m. on Aug. 1, 2026, and is estimated at 35 acres.
The cause is lightning. Resources on scene include 15 total personnel, three engines and one initial attack module.
Officials said cooler weather is creating opportunities for firefighters to make progress on both fires.
Road closures are in effect for both the Butterfly and Black Bear fires to protect the public and firefighters during suppression operations.
Closure details are expected by the end of the day Monday, Aug. 3, 2026.