Fire potential is expected to increase Friday in parts of north-central and southwest Montana, with temperatures reaching into the upper 90s.
According to the National Weather Service hot temperatures, low humidity, and winds will create critical wildfire conditions, especially along the Highway 2 corridor from Browning to Harlem.
In a NWS video posted warning of the heat, Meteorologist Christian Cassell says people should use extreme caution if doing any burning or activities that could generate sparks.
“The operation of farm equipment, towing a unit with a chain that may drag the pavement, or pulling your vehicle off the pavement or gravel onto grassy surfaces.”
I am closing open debris burning in L&C County. Closure will take effect on 07/12/18 at 12:01 a.m. This decision is based on high temperatures, high winds, and predicted ERCs. Open burning will remain closed until we have a significant moisture event allowing safe burning.
— LCSO Helena MT (@LCSOHelenaMT) July 11, 2018
There are currently six local burn bans in place in Sanders, Powell, Mineral, Missoula, Teton and Lewis and Clark Counties. Additional bans start tomorrow in Ravalli and Jefferson Counties.
You can find more Montana wildfire news anytime at MTPR.org