"The fire’s rapid growth from 30 to 100 acres in a single day and subsequent containment challenges highlight the volatility of early-stage wildfires in the region. The deployment of 20 personnel and the shift to minimal behavior by August 27 demonstrate the effectiveness of firefighting efforts."
The Pine Coulee wildfire, located in Big Horn County, Montana, was first discovered on August 25, 2026, and remains active. Initial reports indicated a 30‑acre blaze, which expanded to 100 acres by the morning of August 26. By late August 26, the fire was actively burning with 20 personnel on the scene and 0% containment, covering 100 acres. The next day the fire size decreased to 41 acres, still active and 0% contained, with the same 20 personnel. On August 27, containment improved to 50% with 13 personnel, and the fire behavior shifted to minimal. The cause remains undetermined and jurisdictional agency information is not provided. Estimated costs are $150,000.
Official source description: 14 Miles SE from Pryor, MT
Minimal
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Billings. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
With the fire now at 50% containment and minimal behavior, general wildfire safety precautions apply. Residents should remain aware of local advisories and avoid outdoor activities that could spark new fires.
IRWIN ID: {03C489E3-C222-46E9-9CA6-3131C16A5FF9}
Discovered: Aug 25, 2026
Cause: Undetermined
Est. Cost to Date: $150,000
Coordinates: 45.2392, -108.3435
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in MT.
The Pine Coulee Fire has burned 41 acres as of August 27, 2026.
As of the latest update, the Pine Coulee Fire is 50% contained.
The official cause has been listed as: Undetermined.
The Pine Coulee Fire is burning in Big Horn, MT.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Pine Coulee Fire remains active.
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