"The Moose wildfire’s rapid expansion to over 6,000 acres, the deployment of up to 186 personnel, and the estimated cost surpassing $12 million highlight its significant impact on local resources and the potential threat to nearby communities."
The Moose wildfire, located 24 miles southwest of Philipsburg in Granite County, Montana, was first discovered on July 26, 2026. By August 6, the fire had burned 875 acres with no containment and 105 personnel on the scene. Over the next month the blaze expanded rapidly, reaching 6,003 acres by September 1 and remaining largely uncontained, with containment only reaching 15% by September 5. The United States Forest Service (USFS) is the primary jurisdictional agency, and the fire has been described as moderate to minimal in behavior, shifting from active crown runs and group torching to minimal backing and smoldering as conditions changed. The incident has incurred estimated costs that climbed from $1.36 million on August 7 to over $12.7 million by mid-September, reflecting the sustained resource commitment. The Moose fire is notable for its rapid growth from 875 acres to over 6,000 acres in just over a month, the high number of personnel deployed (peaking at 186), and the escalating estimated cost, which now exceeds $12 million. Preparedness advice: With the fire still largely uncontained and behavior ranging from moderate to minimal, residents in the surrounding area should remain vigilant, follow any evacuation orders, and stay informed through local authorities. General wildfire safety guidance applies, including staying clear of the fire perimeter and avoiding smoke inhalation.
Official source description: 24 Miles SW from Philipsburg, MT
Minimal; Smoldering; Creeping
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Hamilton. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
With the fire still largely uncontained and behavior ranging from moderate to minimal, residents in the surrounding area should remain vigilant, follow any evacuation orders, and stay informed through local authorities. General wildfire safety guidance applies, including staying clear of the fire perimeter and avoiding smoke inhalation.
IRWIN ID: {F039127F-AE05-4C20-9824-653361758DC2}
Discovered: Jul 26, 2026
Cause: Undetermined
Managing Agency: USFS
Est. Cost to Date: $12,655,002
Coordinates: 46.0722, -113.6908
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in MT.
The Moose Fire has burned 6,005 acres as of September 13, 2026.
As of the latest update, the Moose Fire is 15% contained.
The official cause has been listed as: Undetermined.
The Moose Fire is burning in Granite, MT.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Moose Fire remains active.
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