The Derby Fire was ignited by lightning on an extremely steep cliff face in a remote area near the Flat Tops Wilderness on Saturday evening. Initial attack efforts by smokejumpers on Sunday were hindered by rollout of burning material, repeatedly igniting the slope below the main fire. 

Protection of life and property are key objectives for managing this fire.

Northern Rockies Complex Incident Management Team 3 will assume command of the fire on the morning of Wednesday, August 20.