Fire crews battle to halt spread of Montana blaze, largest in the U.S.

The largest wildfire in the country is burning not far west of Minot. The Lodgepole Complex fire is burning in East-Central Montana and has thus far swallowed up more than 270,000 acres. Cooler, more humid weather that past few days has allowed fire fighters to gain ground with containment approaching 40% as of yesterday. The fire is believed to have started because of lightning, but it’s a stark reminder of the extra care that must be given in drought years.