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BLM Urges Public to Use Caution as Elevated Fire Conditions Develop Across Wyoming
The Bureau of Land Management is urging residents and recreationists to exercise increased caution as elevated fire conditions develop across Wyoming, including the High Desert District, Wind River/Bighorn Basin District, and High Plains District. Despite cooler overnight temperatures, vegetation remains dormant, with live fuel moisture at seasonal lows.
Areas without snow cover are particularly susceptible to ignition and rapid fire spread. Weather forecasts for the coming week indicate a combination of strong winds, above-average temperatures, and low relative humidity are all conditions that can contribute to fast-moving wildfires. BLM officials encourage people to be aware of current fire restrictions and elevated fire conditions before heading out and to remain vigilant and report any wildfires immediately to local authorities.
Jeff Barron
March 17, 2026 at 4:50 pm
As Chief of the Tongue River Fire District, I want to echo the BLM’s message and thank our community for the diligence you’ve shown so far this season. Our volunteers are watching conditions closely, and the combination of dormant vegetation, low fuel moisture, strong winds, and low humidity creates a very real ignition risk — even on days that feel mild.
Please take the BLM’s guidance seriously before heading out for any outdoor activities. A spark that might seem minor can become a fast-moving fire in minutes under these conditions. If you see smoke or fire, don’t hesitate — call 911 immediately. Early reporting makes an enormous difference for rural fire departments like ours.
Thank you to everyone who is being thoughtful and responsible. Stay safe out there, Sheridan County.
— Chief Jeff Barron, Tongue River Fire District