Billings, Mont. – Wildfire smoke is set to settle across much of central and eastern Montana tonight, cutting visibility and worsening air quality through Sunday and into early Monday. The thick haze could create unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups and anyone spending extended time outdoors.
According to the National Weather Service in Billings, the heaviest smoke concentrations will impact Billings, Miles City, and Sheridan, Wyoming, beginning Saturday evening. The agency warns that air quality could remain degraded until at least Monday morning, with residents urged to limit strenuous outdoor activity.
Drivers along Interstate 90 between Billings and Bozeman may also face low-visibility stretches overnight, particularly through valleys where smoke is likely to pool. Health officials advise residents to keep windows closed, run air purifiers if possible, and wear N95 masks outdoors to reduce smoke inhalation.
Communities including Sheridan, Cody, and Lewistown are also expected to experience smoky skies through the weekend. Emergency managers recommend checking Montana’s Department of Environmental Quality website for the latest air quality readings before traveling or exercising outdoors.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve Monday afternoon, though additional smoke intrusions remain possible depending on wildfire activity in the region.
