Frost & flames Fire danger remains despite new snowfall

LANDER (WNE) — February is not normally a significant fire month in Wyoming. 

But Fremont County Fire Protection District Chief Ron Wempen said that prior to this week’s storm, the rate of acreage of private land burned in the county during the first two months of 2026 was on pace to meet or surpass the significant fire threats seen during 2025. (Excluding major fires seen in 2025, like the Bull Lake Fire, that required out-of-county support.)

A rash of fires has occurred across the county throughout this dry, warm winter. And while recent snowfall may put a literal damper on fires in the short term, temperatures are expected to rise again by next week.

“This recent round of snow is helpful, I’ll say, but it’s temporary,” National Weather Service Meteorologist Adam Dziewaltowski commented. “Once this melts, we’ll be back to dry and warm conditions.”

“Lander has actually had, so far in season, the lowest snowfall on record,” he added.

Although there are some data points missing in the earlier years, Lander’s meteorological records go back to 1891; in well over 100 years of data, the winter of 2025-26 has taken the crown as the driest winter for the valley.

“Our vegetation, of course, this time of year it’s dead. But with the lack of moisture, not only is it dead, it’s dry – extremely dry,” Wempen explained.

Wempen and Dziewaltowski both advised people to check the weather forecast before burning anything – looking a few days out at the wind forecast – and Wempen emphasized the importance of notifying the appropriate agencies of controlled burns ahead of time. 

Popo Agie Conservation District Executive Director Kelsey Beck also encouraged people to take steps to protect their homes and property from fire.

“Simple steps like clearing defensible space, cleaning up around structures, and planning ahead can make a big difference, especially if these conditions continue into spring,” she pointed out. 

This story was published on Feb. 21, 2026.