Discover how warmer, drier weather in Montana is increasing the likelihood of wildfires

Western Montana faces challenges with poor air quality and evacuations from regional fires in early September, impacting various counties.

The fire was reported between 5 and 6 pm on Friday evening and is/was burning south of Duck Creek/River Road near Hillcrest and Keller Road. Officials urge the public to stay clear of the area until further notice.

Firefighters spent the morning wrapping the old McCart fire lookout station in the Bitterroot National Forest with what looks like tin foil (it's not). The Johnson Ridge fire appears to be approaching the structure from the south.

Per an update from Northwestern Energy, the company may be forced to activate its Public Safety Power Shutoff protocols on Thursday as fire danger is expected to be extreme across Montana. Here's what it means.

On Tuesday, the Lolo National Forest moved into Extreme Fire Danger.

Despite initial fears of a severe fire season, recent weather improvements in the Northern Rockies may reduce wildfire risks this summer.

The devastating fire near Flathead Lake in 2021 destroyed 14 homes and 17 structures, and forced mass evacuations in the region.

The human-caused fire is now the 3rd largest fire in the state.

A gusty cool front will slam into Montana tonight (Tuesday) and Wednesday, bringing an increased risk of wildfires for the next few days.