Missoula County Fire Danger Rises To High Amid Drought

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - On July 14, 2025, fire officials in Missoula County raised fire danger from moderate to HIGH due to dry conditions and consistent hot temperatures, effective immediately. Fire Adapted Communities Coordinator Olivia Anderson has the details.

“Despite cooler temperatures forecasted tomorrow, conditions and fuels remain dry, and temperatures will climb back into the 80s and 90s the rest of the week and into the foreseeable future,” Anderson said. “When fire danger is high, fires can readily start in open, dry grasslands and can burn in heavy timber and dead and downed trees, especially on windy days. Fire officials remain vigilant as these hot, dry conditions persist.”

Anderson is asking residents and visitors to use caution when using fire.

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“With most of Missoula County in either severe or extreme drought, and with fire danger on the rise again, it is important to be mindful when recreating outdoors this summer,” said Fire Management Officer Ashleigh Burwick with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. “Make sure campfires are cold to the touch before leaving them unattended, and make sure trailer chains are secured so they are not dragging, causing unwanted sparks. Firefighters have already been busy with lightning-caused fires, so make sure to do your part to avoid any unintentional fire starts.”

With around 75% of wildfires being human-caused in Montana, Anderson asks you to do your part to prevent wildfire starts.

“General outdoor burning remains closed,” Anderson said. “For information about outdoor debris burning in Missoula County, fire prevention and safety, and wildfire preparedness within Missoula County, please visit MCFPA.org. Visit MTFireinfo.org for information on fire restrictions throughout the state.”

We will continue to monitor the fire danger level and will provide any updates when they become available.