Fast-Moving Wildfire Near Red Lodge Forces Evacuations and Highway Shutdown

On Monday afternoon, everything changed fast in Red Lodge. A wildfire, now called the East Side Fire, grew quickly, and by late afternoon, people could see thick smoke rising from the eastern hills. Not long after that, officials shut down Highway 212 near West Fork Road.

This isn’t just precautionary. The fire is moving fast on the edge of town, and officials are asking everyone to stay alert, pay attention, and take this seriously. They’re also asking you to stay calm, but ready.

Evacuations and Closures You Need to Know

If you live along Highway 212 between mile markers 68 and 58, from Meeteetsee Trail Road down, you are under a mandatory evacuation order. That also includes the 400 Ranch and East Side Road.

If you’re north of East Side Road up to Howell Gulch, you’re not being told to leave just yet, but you are on evacuation warning, which means you should be ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Officials are strongly urging you to keep checking carbonalert.org for updates. This situation is changing quickly, and what’s true right now could shift fast. You’ll also see law enforcement at major intersections, helping to move traffic and ensuring people can get out safely.

What Crews Are Doing Right Now

Fire crews didn’t waste any time. Red Lodge Fire Rescue is on it, with help from county crews, helicopters, and air tankers. They’re working alongside the Carbon County Sheriff’s Office and the Montana Department of Transportation to keep people safe and keep emergency routes clear.

Right now, firefighters are attacking this from both the ground and the air, trying to get a handle on it as quickly as possible. If you see barricades or closures, stay out. That space is critical for first responders to do their jobs.

What You Should Be Doing

This is still unfolding. The fire is currently estimated at around 100 acres, and officials still don’t know what caused it. Your best move right now is to stay informed. Keep checking carbonalert.org and the Red Lodge Fire and Rescue Facebook page for real-time updates.

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And if you live anywhere near the affected areas, make sure you have a plan. Know where you’d go, what you’d grab, and check in on neighbors who might need help. This is one of those moments where staying aware and acting quickly can make all the difference.