Firefighting efforts continue

Weekend precipitation provided a little relief to firefighting efforts in northwest Montana.

The Niarada Fire as of Tuesday afternoon had burned more than 20,000 acres. Last weekend, Highway 28 was again closed due to fire activity but re-opened Sunday afternoon. Authorites removed the reduced speed limit on Highway 28 between Elmo and Lonepine, but urge drivers to use caution as firefighters and equipment are still working in the area.

The Niarada Fire was listed at 25% contained on Tuesday. Fire officials were expecting increased fire activity through the week as higher temperatures returned to the area and fuels dried out.

The for latest fire information, visit http://www.inciweb.org.