May 25, 2026 – Sierra

Montana’s 2026 fire season remains uncertain after an unusually warm, wet winter. SMART FIRES Fire Lead Carl Seielstad notes saturated soils, unusual snowpack patterns, and early green-up could delay risk now but create dangerous fuels later. His research underscores the need for fire-informed planning, community preparedness, and long-term resilience as wildfire becomes an increasingly normal part of Montana’s landscape.