Panama fire reaches 25% containment as crews battle windy conditions

UPDATE: March 19, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Firefighters made progress Thursday on the Panama fire despite challenging afternoon winds, bringing containment to 25%.

More accurate mapping shows the fire has burned 598 acres. No structures remain threatened due to successful suppression efforts, fire officials said.

51 personnel worked the fire Thursday, including air resources. Crews focused on holding and improving containment lines throughout the day.

Strong winds, warm temperatures and low relative humidity are expected again Friday. Conditions are forecast to moderate Saturday.

Firefighters will continue working to hold and improve containment lines Friday. Crews are also identifying suppression repair opportunities as the fire progresses.

UPDATE: March 19, 2026 at 11:29 a.m.

The Panama Fire is burning around 645 acres on Thursday, according to a social media post from the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office.

JCSO said that 57 personnel are currently assigned to the fire.

"Fire behavior moderated overnight, so crews were able to establish some dozer line and work areas of the fire line," JCSO said. "Today's work includes continued direct attack on the south side of the fire, with a mix of direct and indirect tactics on the north side as terrain and conditions allow. Air resources will also be utilized throughout the day."

Challenging weather conditions today such as high wind gusts may impact fire suppression efforts.

CARDWELL, Mont. - The Harrison Volunteer Fire Department battled the 1,100-acre Panama Fire on Wednesday, according to a social media post.

HVFD said it was paged as mutual aid for Willow Creek, along with Gallatin Gateway Fire, Three Forks Fire, Whitehall Fire, and the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

"Temperatures in the low 70s, winds and low humidity made this event feel a bit like June," HVFD said.