Smoke from the Camp Creek Fire in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness is affecting air quality across north-central Montana. Residents have reported a large smoke plume visible from communities including Great Falls.
The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Great Falls warned residents that smoke from the fire was moving across the region and could create unhealthy conditions, especially for people sensitive to air pollution.
Officials have advised residents to reduce time outdoors and take precautions if they experience breathing problems.
Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can affect people with asthma, heart conditions, respiratory illnesses and other sensitivities. Health officials often recommend staying indoors when smoke levels increase, keeping windows closed and using air filtration systems when possible.
Residents across Great Falls and nearby communities have been urged to monitor local air quality reports and follow guidance from emergency officials.
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Large smoke plume visible
The fire has produced a large smoke plume visible across north-central Montana. Photos and videos shared by local observers showed a significant column of smoke rising from the wilderness area.
Curtis Grevenitz on Facebook shared an aerial image of smoke rising from the area and , “Camp Creek Fire in the Bob Marshall is popping off something fierce. Smoke plume visible across north central Montana.”
Another local on Facebook wrote, “I was up at Gibson Reservoir and we left as the fire blew up.” The user also shared an image overlooking the reservoir with a brownish coat of air.
Air quality conditions are measured through monitoring systems that track pollutants, including fine particulate matter known as PM2.5. These particles can travel deep into the lungs and may cause irritation even among healthy individuals.
One user complained of the smell in the area commented, “It’s bad in Vaughn. Smells like a fresh camp fire.”
Another user wrote, “Came in fast and hard to Choteau with ash fall out too.” One user also reported that Augusta was really smoky after wind carried the smoke from Bob Marshall wilderness.
(This is a developing story)
