National Preparedness Level: 2 out of 5 Translation: The fire gods are mostly chilling, but the drama is starting to stir. Think of it as that phase in a reality show right before everyone starts throwing drinks.

What’s Shaking in the West?

While the Southern U.S. is currently catching the brunt of the early season (they had over 100 new fires yesterday alone!), here’s what’s happening in our neck of the woods:

• Idaho & The Great Basin: We had 2 new starts yesterday. You’ll likely see some smoke near the Midas Touch area—don’t panic, that is planned, it is supposed to be on fire.
• Montana: The East Side Fire near Red Lodge is being a total early-season pain, remaining active at 1,600 acres with exactly 0% containment. Crews are watching for “torching,” which is just firefighter speak for entire trees lighting up like a pre-gaming college kid.
• Oregon & Washington: Oregon is doing its “spring cleaning” with tons of prescribed burns underway to clear the brush before it can cause real trouble. Washington, however, did get its first official uninvited guest, the Tunnel Creek Fire, so we’re keeping an eye on that.
• Rockies & Southwest: Wyoming, the Walker Creek fire is officially over—100% contained, peace out. California and Arizona are starting to see their usual early-season “will they, won’t they” small starts.

The Weather: “Mother Nature is having a mood.”

The Northern Plains and Four Corners are in the “hot seat” today with Critical Risk warnings. We’re talking 55 mph gusts—the kind of wind that can turn a cigarette butt into a major incident faster than you can grab the hose.

The good news? A giant chunk of the Northwest is getting rain and snow today (above 5,000 feet), which acts like a giant “pause button” for fire activity. Phew.

Idaho Fire Pro-Tip

Before you start your “neighborly feud” by lighting a burn pile, just don’t. If gusts hit 30+ mph, your “controlled” burn can become an “uncontrolled” headache for everyone (including us). We’ll find out, and it will be awkward. Wait for a calm day.

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Sources & Sit-Rep Data:

• NIFC Incident Management Situation Report (IMSR)
• InciWeb Incident Information System
• NOAA/NWS Storm Prediction Center

Disclaimer: The information provided in this update is synthesized from multiple federal and state wildland fire reporting systems. While we strive to provide the most current and relatable summary possible, fire conditions change rapidly. This content is for situational awareness only; Idaho Fire & Mechanics and its affiliates are not liable for inaccuracies in third-party data or for actions taken based on this summary. Always defer to your local emergency management and “Ready, Set, Go” evacuation orders.