Management team called in for wildfires burning in Mineral, Sanders counties

Firefighters across the Lolo National Forest are continuing to battle several fires that were sparked by thunderstorms on Wednesday.

The western portion of the Lolo National Forest -- including the Superior and Plains-Thompson Falls Ranger Districts -- experienced the most lightning activity.

A Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team has been ordered and will take command of multiple wildfire incidents located on the Superior and Plains-Thompson Falls Ranger Districts by Friday.

Fire managers said several helicopters, airtankers, smokejumpers, ground crews, engines, heavy equipment, helitack and air attack were used on Thursday.

Aerial resources were shared between multiple emerging incidents and were used to slow fire spread. Crews worked to assess and gain access to the fire areas, according to a news release.

Firefighters are expecting new wildfires to emerge over the coming days due to increased temperatures and drying fuel moisture.