What are the names and locations of the wildfires?
As of September 26, 2026, the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires are burning in Beaverhead County, Montana, within and near the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.
The Sand Creek Fire is located southeast of Wisdom, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire is burning between Wisdom and Wise River (1).
Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires?
The cities and areas affected by the Sand Creek and Bobcat Lakes fires include:
- Clark Creek
- Elkhorn Hot Springs
- Grasshopper Valley
- Jerked Prairie
- Maverick Mountain
- Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway
- Shale Creek
- Wisdom
- Wise River
What is the current containment status of the wildfires?
As of September 26, 2026, the Sand Creek Fire has burned approximately 35,520 acres and is 83% contained, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire has burned approximately 10,896 acres and is 91% contained (2).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
On September 17, evacuation orders for the Clark Creek and Shale Creek areas were lifted, while Jerked Prairie remains under the Level 2 evacuation warning.
How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?
Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
As of September 26, 2026, the Sand Creek Fire is 83% contained, while the Bobcat Lakes Fire is 91% contained.
