COMET Case Study 029: Montana Fire Weather-Dry Cold Front

Project Dates

October 30, 1999 to November 1, 1999

Project Description

A dry cold front passed through eastern Montana on 31 October 1999 bringing in a strong northwest wind behind it. Warmer and drier than normal conditions existed in the region at this time, so with the addition of strong wind, the fire danger rose greatly. Sustained winds of 50+ knots and gusts to near 80 knots were reported in eastern Montana, driving fires near the towns of Outlook and Wolf Point. Over $12 million in damages are estimated statewide from the strong wind and fires.

Objectives

This case expands the coverage of our Case Study Library to Fire Weather events, and allows in-depth study of fire weather mechanisms associated with a dry cold front acoss Montana.

Data Access for COMET Case Study 029