Billings Forecast Hot & Dry; Potential For Fire Increases

After a brief cool down on Saturday previewed what's to come this fall, hot summer conditions return this week. And the lack of precipitation in the forecast will give us a threat for wildfires.

Current Billings forecast from Weather Channel has highs in the 80's and 90's through next weekend and little chance of rain with only a 10 percent chance of precipitation each day Wednesday (8/21) through Friday (8/23).

A Red Flag Warning has already been issued in North Central Wyoming for Big Horn and Washakie Counties from 12 noon to 9pm MDT on Monday (8/19).

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. -National Weather Service

Here are some precautions you can take, courtesy of the N.W.S.:

• Be cautious of outdoor burning and make sure your campfire is completely out before exiting the campground.
• Avoid driving or parking in high, dead grass and secure trailer chains. A spark can ignite dry vegetation.
• Properly extinguish cigarette butts.