North Dakota Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for North Dakota - June 18, 2026

Overview

North Dakota is experiencing an early shift toward above-normal significant wildland fire potential for this time of year. This elevated risk is driven by an ongoing combination of lower-than-average winter snowpack, dry conditions, and an erratic spring green-up that has left dry fuels exposed across parts of the state. While significant fire activity is typically uncommon in North Dakota in June, current conditions have prolonged the risk, making even a small number of large fires statistically above normal for the region.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, firefighters have been actively managing ongoing large incidents in western North Dakota while monitoring for new starts. The state has seen above-normal fire activity for June, with state, federal, and tribal resources heavily engaged in suppression efforts. Recent scattered showers have provided some tactical relief, aiding crews in strengthening containment lines.

Key Fires:

• Mandaree Fire (Fort Berthold Indian Reservation): Located approximately 10 miles south of Mandaree, this fire has burned an estimated 8,000 acres and is currently 50% contained. Authorities suspect a burning coal seam ignited the blaze. It is being fueled by fully cured prairie grasses and brush in remote terrain. Firefighters, aided by National Guard Black Hawk helicopters conducting water drops, have made significant progress and are actively working to protect nearby tribal lands and communities.
• Roosevelt Creek Fire: Burning in the Little Missouri National Grassland, this fire has consumed roughly 4,000 acres and is currently 60% contained. Pushed by strong 35 mph wind gusts earlier in the incident, the fire fed heavily on dry prairie grasses and deciduous trees in rugged terrain. Firefighters are utilizing recent favorable weather to reinforce containment lines and conduct extensive mop-up operations.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The North Dakota National Guard recently concluded its spring wildfire support operations, which focused heavily on proactive land management, hazardous fuels mitigation, and fire preparedness across the state. Additionally, due to fluctuating fire danger, several counties—including Burleigh, McLean, Mercer, and Williams—have enacted automatic burn restrictions. These restrictions are triggered immediately when the North Dakota Rangeland Fire Danger Rating reaches High, Very High, or Extreme, or when a Red Flag Warning is issued.

Air Quality: Widespread smoke impacts are currently minimal due to recent rain and wind dispersion. However, residents near active fires should remain cautious of localized smoke, particularly during the smoldering and mop-up phases of the Mandaree and Roosevelt Creek fires.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Western and central North Dakota have recently experienced increased cloud cover, scattered showers, and isolated thunderstorms. This precipitation, along with cooler temperatures in the 60s, has helped recover relative humidity levels into the 50s and 60s, greatly assisting firefighting efforts over the last 72 hours.
Forecasted Weather: Following a recent weather system that brought strong northwest wind gusts of up to 50 mph to the southwest and south-central regions, the forecast for the next 72 hours favors seasonably mild temperatures, lighter winds, and lower chances for showers and thunderstorms. These moderate conditions will help limit overall fire weather concerns in the immediate term, though underlying dry fuels remain a focal point for fire managers.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are urged to strictly follow local county burn bans and check the daily North Dakota Rangeland Fire Danger Rating before engaging in any outdoor activities. When burn restrictions are active, open burning—including campfires, agricultural burning, and fireworks—is strictly prohibited.
Resource Allocation: State and federal resources, including the North Dakota Forest Service and aviation assets, remain engaged in suppression and are prepositioned to respond to local requests for aid. Agencies continue to monitor conditions closely as the region navigates this unusually active early summer fire season.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
NDResponse: ndresponse.gov
North Dakota Fire Declarations and Burn Restrictions Map: ndresponse.gov/burn
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.