What is the name and location of the wildfires?

As of Tuesday, October 8, 2024 there are two significant wildfires burning in western North Dakota (1)(2). So far, over 100 people have been forced to evacuate, and one person has died as the fires have grown to nearly 50,000 acres (3).

The Elkhorn Fire is burning near Grassy Butte, while the Bear Den Fire is located near Mandaree. The fires are affecting the region's oil fields, agricultural lands, and rugged terrain.

There were four other serious fires blazing across the region this weekend, but all four are either 100% contained or near full containment.

Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfires?

The areas most directly impacted by the wildfires include:

• Arnegard
• Charlson
• Emmet
• Grassy Butte
• Mandaree
• Ray
• Watford City

What is the current containment status of the wildfires?

As of the latest reports:

• Elkhorn Fire: 20% contained, covering 44 square miles.
• Bear Den Fire: 0% contained, covering 18 square miles.
• Other fires: Fires near Arnegard, Emmet, and Charlson are 100% contained, while those in Williams County are 90% contained.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders were given to between 80 and 100 residents in the Arnegard area due to a 700-acre fire. Those orders have since been lifted.

Governor Doug Burgum has declared a statewide fire emergency and activated the North Dakota National Guard. Emergency services are actively monitoring the situation, and residents in affected areas should stay vigilant for further alerts.

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.