Montana Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Montana - May 19, 2026

Overview

Montana is experiencing an active early fire season driven by a persistent and extreme drought. Following an unseasonably warm and dry winter, nearly 60% of the state is facing drought conditions, with over 32% experiencing severe or extreme drought. So far this year, the state has seen nearly 500 wildfires burning over 15,000 acres. In response to the intensifying conditions, a statewide Day of Prayer for Rain was declared on Sunday, May 17. Fortunately, a significant weather shift over the last 48 hours has brought much-needed rain and snow to parts of the state, helping to mitigate immediate fire behavior and providing temporary relief to dry landscapes.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Wildland fire activity has been significant across several geographic areas, though recent precipitation has aided suppression efforts. Firefighters continue to manage existing incidents, secure perimeters, and monitor for new starts as conditions fluctuate.

Key Fires:

• Rehder Creek Fire: Located in Musselshell County near Roundup, this fire is the largest of the season so far, having burned approximately 5,060 acres. It previously prompted evacuation orders in Roundup and surrounding areas. Crews have been working to secure lines in highly receptive fuels, primarily dry prairie grass, sagebrush, and mixed brush.
• East Side Fire: Burning south of Red Lodge in Carbon County, this fire has reached 1,219 acres and is currently 70% contained. The fire prompted local evacuations and the closure of U.S. Route 212. The cause remains under investigation, and firefighters are focused on mopping up and patrolling for hotspots.
• Jericho Creek Fire: Ignited on May 13 in Powell County, this fire is currently estimated at 1,000 acres and is 0% contained. It is burning within the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, fueled by a buildup of mixed timber and dry vegetation.
• Epsie Fire: A newly active fire that started on May 14; it is currently being monitored and managed by interagency fire crews.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management:
May is officially Wildfire Awareness Month in Montana. The state, in partnership with Keep Montana Green and the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), is urging residents to reduce their community's wildfire risk by clearing debris, pruning trees, and creating defensible space around properties.

Land management agencies have been actively conducting prescribed burns to reduce fuel loads and improve forest health. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Wildland Fire Service have been implementing prescribed burns in Valley, Petroleum, and Fergus counties—including the Hawk Coulee and Two Calf Unit A areas—to lower the risk of high-severity wildfires. Additionally, the DNRC Bozeman Unit recently conducted prescribed fire operations southwest of Bozeman near the Flying D Ranch.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Following a period of critical fire weather and Red Flag Warnings last week that brought 65 mph wind gusts and 15% humidity, a significant weather shift occurred over the weekend. As of May 17, parts of Montana experienced heavy rain and even snow, significantly aiding firefighting efforts and dampening fine fuels.
Forecasted Weather: The National Weather Service in Great Falls forecasts a northwest flow over the Northern Rockies through the workweek, bringing daily chances for showers and occasional thunderstorms. Below-normal temperatures will warm to near normal by midweek. The best chance for widespread precipitation is expected on Wednesday, May 20, as a compact disturbance moves over the region. While this moisture is highly beneficial, residents should remain vigilant as shifting winds can still pose risks to existing firelines.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Over 75% of wildfires in Montana are human-caused. Residents are urged to practice extreme caution with outdoor activities. Please ensure all debris burns are fully extinguished, avoid parking vehicles on dry grass, and abide by any local burn restrictions.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters and interagency teams continue to monitor fire perimeters and conduct mop-up operations. Resources remain strategically staged to respond to any new lightning-caused or human-caused starts as the weather system moves through.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, evacuation notices, and fire maps, residents can visit:
Montana Fire Info: www.mtfireinfo.org
Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC): dnrc.mt.gov
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.