Glasgow, Montana — Dangerous fire conditions will develop across eastern Montana Sunday as strong winds and extremely dry air combine to increase the risk of fast-moving wildfires from late morning through evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Glasgow, northwest winds of 15 to 30 mph and humidity levels dropping as low as 14 percent will create critical fire weather between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. Sunday. The most dangerous window is expected from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., when winds peak and fuels dry rapidly.
Communities including Glasgow, Sidney, Glendive, Wolf Point and Circle face the highest risk, especially in open grasslands and rural areas east of Highway 24. Along MT-24 and nearby rural roads, any spark could ignite fires that spread quickly across dry fields, potentially crossing roadways and reducing visibility with blowing smoke. Equipment use in agricultural areas and roadside ignition sources increase the risk during peak wind periods.
This is part of a broader system of dry air and gusty northwest flow across the northern Plains, increasing wildfire potential and straining response efforts.
Residents should avoid outdoor burning, secure equipment that could spark and limit travel in fire-prone rural areas during peak conditions.
The most critical fire danger will occur between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., when wind and dryness will allow fires to spread rapidly and become difficult to control.
