HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Authorities concerned over a growing wildfire have ordered evacuations in a remote part of the Lewis and Clark National Forest where there are dozens of recreational cabins and other structures.

Lewis and Clark County Deputy Disaster and Emergency Services Coordinator Jim Hyatt said Wednesday that the evacuation order for the Benchmark Road area is a precautionary measure. The Rapid Creek Fire is still a couple of miles away and must cross rocky terrain to threaten the area, but there is only one way in and out of the neighborhood.

Hyatt says there are 55 structures and 20 outbuildings in the evacuation zone. Most are non-primary residences.

U.S. Forest Service spokeswoman Marianne Baumberger says firefighters battling the 7.8-square-mile Elbow Pass complex expect hot and dry weather the next couple of days.

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