Davis Coulee

Evacuation orders in place as grass fire burns on Crow Reservation

The Davis Coulee Fire is burning in short grass and brush on the Crow Indian Reservation southwest of Crow Agency and west of Garryowen. Driven by strong northwest winds after igniting on September 14, the fast-moving blaze split along multiple fronts during rapid initial runs and prompted evacuation orders. Fire activity has since moderated to smoldering as tribal, local, and interstate crews work to secure the perimeter.

Evacuations and Closures

• Evacuation orders remain in place for the fire area following rapid wind-driven runs (issued September 15).

Impact

The fire damaged a transmission line connected to the Yellowtail substation on September 14, causing power outages across Reno Creek south of Soap Creek, Lodge Grass, Wyola, and into northern Wyoming. Smoke from the fire produced noticeable haze and odor across the region and as far south as the Colorado Front Range.

Conditions and Outlook

Northerly winds will shift to the east and southeast as conditions warm toward late week. Gusty winds will accompany an incoming system that brings a strong chance of wetting rain and significantly higher humidity over the weekend. Firefighters plan to continue containment and mop-up operations across the grassland perimeter.

Cause and Context

The cause of the fire remains undetermined and under investigation as of September 14. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is leading the incident response with mutual aid from Big Horn, Yellowstone, and Sheridan counties, with community relief coordination provided by Crow tribal leadership and disaster organizations.

Official updates current through September 15, 2026.