Northwest Montana Fire and Aviation
In depth information on fire and aviation in Libby, Montana.
Issued on 10/18/26 at 6:52 PM
Fire Weather Discussion as of 7:20 p.m. MDT Friday, October 16, 2026
Very dry conditions for October combined with a passing disturbance which will kick up breezy southwest winds on Saturday along with low relative humidity values during peak heating will result in a few hours at least of at least marginal fire conditions across the region. October has been exceptionally dry and fuels are remarkably dry for mid October so any fire that starts could spread unusually fast for the time of year given the low relative humidity values and breezy conditions anticipated on Saturday. No advisories or watches are in effect but the fire community should be prepared for the potential for a rare late season possibility of fire starts given the very dry conditions and low relative humidity values. Winds will blow from the south and southwest at 10 to 20 mph with gusts to 25 to 30 mph on Saturday afternoon combined with minimum relative humidity values dropping to between 20-25%.
Aviation discussion as of 7:55 p.m. MDT Sunday, October 18, 2026 valid through 10:00 p.m. MDT Monday, October 19, 2026:
VFR conditions will likely prevail through the period with considerable high cloudiness but cloud bases will remain AOA 15,000 feet MSL. Winds will remain light and under 5 mph.