Health & Safety
United States · Direct U.S. connection
Red Flag Warning Issued for Slope and Bowman Counties in North Dakota
The National Weather Service Bismarck office has alerted residents of critical fire weather conditions expected throughout Friday due to strong winds and low humidity.
Share this article
THE PRIMARY BRIEF
- 01 · The primary finding
The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for Slope and Bowman counties in North Dakota, active from noon to 8:00 PM MDT on October 23, 2026, due to high winds and low humidity.
- 02 · The primary evidence
The NWS Bismarck office issued the warning at 4:44 AM CDT, forecasting south winds around 20 mph with gusts to 40 mph, and relative humidity between 15-25%. This aligns with earlier discussions anticipating critical fire weather conditions for Friday. Local burn restrictions in Bowman County are triggered by such warnings.
- 03 · Why it matters
The conditions create a high risk for rapid wildfire spread. Local communities and residents need to be aware of increased fire danger and adhere to any burn restrictions to prevent ignitions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Bismarck, North Dakota, issued a Red Flag Warning for Slope and Bowman counties, effective Friday, October 23, 2026. The warning is in effect from noon today until 8:00 PM MDT this evening. This alert signals that critical fire weather conditions are expected across far southwest North Dakota. The NWS Bismarck office updated its map on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 4:08:27 am CDT.
The warning was issued at 4:44 AM CDT on October 23. Weather forecasts for the affected areas predict south winds sustained at approximately 20 miles per hour, with gusts potentially reaching 40 miles per hour. Relative humidity levels are anticipated to fall to between 15 and 25 percent. These combined factors create an environment where any fires that ignite are likely to spread rapidly.
Forecasters at NWS Bismarck had previously indicated the potential for such conditions. A fire weather discussion noted that on Friday, breezy south to southeast winds were expected along with unseasonably warm temperatures. By Friday afternoon, dry air could push into southwest North Dakota, leading to a few hours of near critical, or possibly even critical, fire weather conditions due to warm temperatures, breezy southerly winds, and low humidities of 20 to 25 percent.
Local authorities in Bowman County have burn restrictions in place that are activated when a Red Flag Warning is issued. These restrictions prohibit open burning, fireworks, and the burning of garbage piles and pits. The only allowed exception is the responsible use of gas grills, provided they are used at a safe distance from combustible materials. Violating these burn restrictions can result in a Class B misdemeanor, carrying maximum penalties of 30 days in jail and a $1,500 fine.
The North Dakota Department of Emergency Services provides an online resource where the public can verify current burn restrictions, fire danger ratings, and active Red Flag Warnings. It is critical to check for current restrictions before outdoor activities, as conditions can change during the day.
SHOW YOUR WORK