Montana Faces Air Quality Alert Amid Wildfire Smoke
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has issued an Air Quality Alert for multiple counties, including Choteau, Missoula, and Ravalli, due to elevated particulate levels from wildfire smoke. The alert is in effect until 9:00 AM on Monday, July 27, 2026. Current conditions show air quality levels as 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups' in Cut Bank, Hamilton, and Missoula, while other areas like Butte and Helena are experiencing 'Moderate' air quality. Wildfires in Montana, Oregon, and Washington are contributing to the smoke, with the Perkins Fire, Elder 1 Fire, and North Fork Lost Horse Fire seeing significant growth. The Rapid Refresh Forecast System (RRFS) predicts heavy smoke across much of Montana by Monday afternoon. (Source: Montana DEQ, HRRR-smoke, NOAA; Source time: not specified)