2026 Wildfire and Smoke Outlook for Montana: What can we expect?
You are invited to a free community forum, simulcast live on Zoom from Kalispell and Missoula on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 6:00 pm, during Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week.
Following our abnormally warm winter and below average snow pack, many in the region are asking what this summer may bring. The forum will feature panelists who will sort through up-to-date weather and climate projections and share tips for how best to prepare for wildfires and accompanying smoke. While there will be a focus on western Montana, we all know that smoke travels and the prevailing winds come from the west!
Panelists include:
- Alex Lukinbeal – Meteorologist, National Weather Service (Missoula)
- Kyle Bocinsky – Montana Climate Office at the University of Montana
- Mike West – U.S. Forest Service and FireSafe Flathead
- Amy Cilimburg – Climate Smart Missoula
Moderator: Adam de Yong Climate Smart Glacier
Register for the Zoom event at this link: bit.ly/
Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week, June 7-13, is designated by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and community partners to provide resources regarding health concerns and how best to prepare for smoky conditions.