Red Flag Warning: Extreme Fire Danger Across Region Today

A Red Flag Warning has been issued for our area, indicating critical fire weather conditions are expected today, October 9, 2026. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution and take immediate steps to prevent wildfires.

The warning is in effect from 12:48 AM MDT until 9:00 PM MDT today. The National Weather Service in Billings, MT, issued the warning due to a combination of strong gusty winds, very low humidity, and unseasonably warm temperatures.

Affected areas include the Gallatin National Forest; Wheatland County; Sweet Grass County; Beartooth Ranger District Custer National Forest; Sheridan County/Casper BLM; and Bighorn National Forest. Specifically, Carbon, Gallatin, Park, Stillwater, Sweet Grass, and Wheatland counties in Montana, and Big Horn, Johnson, Sheridan, and Washakie counties in Wyoming, are impacted.

Winds are forecast from the southwest at 15 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. Humidity levels will drop as low as 7 percent, and temperatures are expected to reach 84 to 90 degrees. These conditions will create erratic fire behavior and rapid spread for any new or existing fires, particularly in lower to middle elevations with fine fuels.

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. Residents should avoid any activities that could spark a fire, such as operating equipment that creates sparks, burning debris, or discarding cigarettes improperly. Report any signs of fire immediately to emergency services.