Summer fire outlook: Sheridan area expected to be at high risk for wildfires this summer

SHERIDAN (WNE) — Sheridan County is bracing for a potentially severe wildfire season as experts predict a high fire risk throughout the summer.

The combination of lower than usual winter and spring precipitation, leftover vegetation from previous years and increasing temperatures has set the stage for an increased likelihood of wildfires across the region.

Sheridan has experienced a dry spring, with precipitation levels falling well below the seasonal average. Forecaster Julie Arthur with the National Weather Service in Billings said conditions are favorable for a high-fire-risk summer.

“This summer, we are on the side of above normal temperatures. Precipitation, unfortunately, is below normal. We’re looking at a 40-50% chance of having below normal precipitation. That would argue for a warmer and drier than normal summer,” said Arthur.

Warm conditions have already struck much of the Sheridan area. With little to no chance of moisture in the forecast, vegetation has already begun to dry out.

“While it’s kind of a delayed fire season in June, I would expect more of a fire threat as we get into July and August,” said Arthur.

This story was published on June 22, 2024.