The Latest: 16 homes destroyed by western Montana wildfire

HAMILTON, Mont. – The Latest on the Roaring Lion Fire burning in western Montana (all times local):

6:40 p.m.

Authorities have found two more homes that were destroyed by a wildfire in western Montana, bringing the total to 16.

Ravalli County Undersheriff Steve Holton said Friday the homes were confirmed destroyed after crews were able to clear access to them. An additional 49 outbuildings and non-residential structures were damaged by the Roaring Lion Fire, which started southwest of Hamilton on Sunday.

The fire, which has burned more than 12 square miles, is 15 per cent contained.

More than 600 homes had been evacuated, but residents of 400 homes were told Thursday they could return.

Fire crews are mopping up fire line and conducting some burnouts to secure barriers to the fire’s expansion. Crews are also working around homes to cool down any hot spots that could re-ignite.

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8:50 a.m.

A mostly quiet day on a western Montana wildfire allowed firefighters to advance containment and make it safe for the residents of about 400 homes to return to the area.

The Roaring Lion Fire, which started southwest of Hamilton on Sunday, has burned just over 12 square miles and 14 homes. It was 15 per cent contained on Friday morning.

The residents of more than 600 homes had been evacuated, but on Thursday residents of 400 homes were told they could return.

Fire crews planned Friday to mop up fire line and conduct some burnouts to secure barriers to the fire’s expansion. Crews are also working around homes to cool down any hot spots that could re-ignite.

However, thunderstorms and wind are possible Friday afternoon, which could increase fire behaviour.