Wyoming Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Wyoming - April 23, 2026

Overview

Wyoming is experiencing an unusually active and early start to its 2026 fire season, driven by a historically low snowpack, unseasonably warm temperatures, and cured vegetation. Much of southeast, eastern, and central Wyoming, including the Cheyenne, Laramie, and Casper areas, are currently facing "Extreme Drought" (D3) conditions, which is contributing to extreme fire danger. Year-to-date acreage burned is currently sitting at approximately 200% of the 10-year average. The current National Preparedness Level is 2, indicating that while wildland fire activity is occurring, national firefighting resources are adequate to respond to emerging incidents without severe competition.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Firefighting resources have been actively managing an aggressive early season. The state has tracked double the number of wildfires and six times the number of acres burned compared to the same time last year. Firefighters have largely been successful in keeping new blazes small and contained, though high winds and critically low fuel moisture continue to create a recipe for rapid fire growth. To help mitigate risks, Stage 1 fire restrictions are currently in place across 13 counties in the state, prohibiting campfires and other activities prone to sparking.

Key Fires:

• Sandpiper Fire: Located northeast of Casper, this fire has burned approximately 6,200 acres. It has been driven by high winds and is fueled by critically dry grasses and sagebrush.
• Porcupine Creek Fire: Located near Wright in Campbell County, this fire has burned 2,542 acres and previously prompted evacuations for the town of Wright. It is fueled by critically dry cured vegetation and timber. Firefighters continue to monitor the area to prevent further spread.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service are actively conducting prescribed burns to reduce hazardous fuels and lower the risk of large-scale wildfires. The BLM Buffalo Field Office is conducting burns in western Johnson County to reduce mountain big sagebrush density and restore curl-leaf mahogany stands. Additionally, the U.S. Forest Service is planning the Clay Spur RX project (1,659 acres) in Weston County and the Wildcat RX project (617 acres) near Esterbrook. F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Laramie County is also conducting controlled burns through April 25 to maintain ecological health and reduce wildfire risks.

Air Quality: Smoke from prescribed burns and active wildfires may be visible in nearby communities, including areas in Johnson, Weston, and Converse counties. Residents in these areas should be aware and use caution, particularly when driving, as smoke may impact roadways.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Red Flag Warnings are currently active across broad swaths of central, north-central, northeast, and southeast Wyoming due to critical fire weather conditions. High temperatures, relative humidity dropping as low as 5 to 15 percent, and strong southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 to 65 mph are creating an extreme wildfire risk.
Forecasted Weather: High Wind Warnings and Red Flag Warnings will remain in effect through Thursday evening for many zones. Isolated dry thunderstorms may produce lightning with little or no rain, increasing the risk of new fire starts. A slight chance of rain and snow is forecast for some areas overnight into Friday, which may bring cooler air and higher humidity to help moderate conditions heading into the weekend.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents in areas prone to wildfires should remain vigilant, adhere strictly to local fire restrictions, and avoid any outdoor burning or activities that could produce a spark. It is crucial to have a "Go-Bag" prepared with essential items (medications, important documents, pet supplies) in case of sudden evacuation orders. Property owners are encouraged to utilize Firewise USA recommendations, such as clearing dead brush and maintaining defensible space to protect homes from fast-moving fires.
Resource Allocation: To combat the aggressive fire season, Wyoming has appropriated funding to hire the state's first two professional wildland fire crews, which will be based in Lander and Douglas. These new modules are intended to keep wildfires smaller, reduce suppression costs, and save homes and infrastructure.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Wyoming State Forestry Division: wsfd.wyo.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.