PORCH PONDERINGS

Big Fire

So the big news in Roundup today is a wildfire. As of the last posting by DES, the size of the fire is 5,000 acres. It's in a remote area, with many ranches and farms in the way.

Seems someone had a burn pile that wasn't put out properly. And winds yesterday were 25 - 40 MPH.

Since this area has had big fires in the recent past, all are on edge. But the community is rallying, offering shelter at the community center, free motel rooms at a local motel, land for farm animal evacuations.

I actually saw a big area of a red glow as I drove back from Billings last night. I didn't know about this fire so I was confused as to what this was. It was about 8:30 at night, so too late for a sunset. I know several people that live in this area, so I am monitoring this every few minutes. Our local DES is keeping everyone updated on Facebook.

It is really concerning to have a big fire this soon in the season. But we've had very little moisture this winter. A few bouts of snow, and no real rain doesn't help with drought conditions.

My time in Billings yesterday was spent going around shopping, then on to a poetry class downtown. It was session four of five. A group of anywhere from 10-15 people have been attending. It has been informative and affirming. There is another session on this coming Sunday. I've met some very talented and interesting people. I've written some poems, that perhaps I will share them sometime soon.

So everyone please pray for Musselshell County. Pray the winds stop, even though they are again predicted for today. Pray for the landowners that are affected.

No one wants fire season to start this early.