UPDATE: Pics of Fire Spreading Smoke All Across Montana

BUTTE, MT - As Montanans, we are no strangers to wildfire season, even this late into the year.

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Each year, smoke-filled skies become a part of summer and fall, tragically caused by dangerous, raging wildfires.

This time, much of the unhealthy haze and heavy air we’ve been experiencing is drifting in from a significant fire burning just across our southern border in Idaho: the West Mountain Complex Fire.

Where Is the West Mountain Complex Fire?

The West Mountain Complex Fire, located in the Boise National Forest in Idaho, is actually a combination of three separate fires: the Goat Fire, the Snag Fire, and the Dollar Fire.

Together, these have spread across tens of thousands of acres, driven by dry conditions and challenging terrain. As of the latest update, these fires remain active, with crews working tirelessly to gain control.

While Idaho has been hit hard this year by wildfires, the West Mountain Complex Fire stands out due to its size, location, and its potential to spread smoke across state lines. This is one of the major sources of the smoke currently affecting Montana's air quality.

How Is the Fire Being Fought?

Firefighting crews, both local and national, are putting in unrelenting efforts to control the blaze. Approximately 530 personnel are currently assigned to combat the fire, using a combination of ground teams, aerial support, and strategic firelines to slow its spread.

In addition to human efforts, fire managers have also been closely monitoring weather conditions. Unfortunately, recent gusty winds and low humidity levels have made it more challenging to contain the fire in this Autumn season, where fire activity continues in seven states and 27 large active wildfires have burned 1,212,359 acres.

Understanding where the smoke is coming from and how to mitigate its impacts is crucial, especially as wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense each year. The combined efforts of firefighters in Idaho will eventually bring relief, but in the meantime, let’s do our best to stay informed, stay safe, and support those on the frontlines of this and other fires.