Helena, Montana – Montana officials are urging residents to prepare now for wildfire smoke season, warning that smoky conditions can affect communities across the state even when fires are burning hundreds of miles away.
Governor Greg Gianforte has officially proclaimed June 8 through June 12 as Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week, a statewide effort focused on helping families protect their health, improve indoor air quality, and take practical steps before wildfire smoke arrives.
State leaders say preparation is especially important as Montana enters another fire season and faces the possibility of prolonged smoke events that can impact daily life, outdoor activities, and public health.
“As fire season approaches, it’s important to remember the steps we can take to reduce the impacts of wildfire smoke,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Being prepared and raising awareness about how Montanans can stay safe during fire season helps protect our families, communities, and quality of life when smoke is in the air.”
Officials Encourage Early Preparation
Wildfire smoke can affect anyone, but health experts say certain groups face a greater risk of serious health problems.
Children, older adults, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and people with respiratory illnesses such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are considered especially vulnerable when air quality worsens.
The goal of Smoke Ready Week is not only to educate residents but also to encourage cooperation among public health agencies, community organizations, and emergency response teams so that resources and information are available when smoke conditions develop.
“Being prepared for wildfire smoke is similar to preparing for any other emergency,” said Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Asthma Control Program Manager BJ Biskupiak. “Knowing where to find trusted air quality information, having a plan for protecting your family, and creating a cleaner indoor air space can help people stay healthy during smoky conditions.”
Officials recommend several steps that residents can take before wildfire smoke becomes a problem.
Among the recommendations are monitoring air quality forecasts, identifying clean air resource centers in local communities, replacing heating and cooling system filters with filters rated MERV-13 or higher, and using portable HEPA air cleaners to improve indoor air quality.
Health officials say taking these actions before smoke arrives can make it easier for families to stay safe during periods of poor air quality.
Smoke Can Travel Long Distances
Environmental experts emphasize that wildfire smoke is not limited to areas near active fires.
According to state officials, smoke can travel vast distances and affect communities that are far removed from the original source.
“Wildfire smoke doesn’t always come from fires burning nearby,” said Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Air Quality Meteorologist, Aaron Ofseyer. “Smoke can travel hundreds of miles and affect communities across Montana. That’s why every Montanan should take time during Smoke Ready Week to learn about available resources, such as the Today’s Air website and smoke forecasts, and prepare before wildfire season intensifies.”
Because of that reality, officials are encouraging residents throughout Montana—not just those living near forested areas—to stay informed and monitor changing air quality conditions throughout the summer.
Public Events Focus On Wildfire Awareness
As part of Wildfire Smoke Ready Week, several educational events are being held around the state.
One of the featured events is the 2026 Wildfire and Smoke Outlook Forum, scheduled for June 9 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The forum will provide information from experts regarding expected wildfire conditions, drought outlooks, smoke forecasts, and steps residents can take to protect their homes and health.
The event will be broadcast simultaneously from Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell and the Missoula Public Library. A virtual participation option will also be available to residents across the state.
State agencies are also directing residents to online resources that provide smoke forecasts, air quality updates, smoke maps, and information about clean air resource centers.
Officials say the week serves as a reminder that preparation before smoke arrives can make a significant difference when wildfire season intensifies. By planning ahead, improving indoor air quality, and staying informed, Montana families can better protect themselves from one of the most widespread health impacts associated with wildfire season.
