Evacuation warning issued for Paola Ridge Fire near Essex

Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry has issued an evacuation notice for a small number of homes near the Paola Ridge Fire near Essex.

The warning is based on the recommendation of the incident command and fire experts involved with the Paola Ridge Fire. Specific area under this evacuation warning is from mile marker 176 to mile marker 179, including Branch Road, Bugling Elk Trail, Dickey Creek Loop, Eagle Haunts Run, and Lazy Moose Trail.

People are asked to avoid the area, though U.S. Highway 2 remains open at this time. Motorists are asked to reduce speed due to smoke hazards and because of emergency personnel and firefighters in the area.