Montana’s devastating wildfires are starting underground

The world’s least understood ignition source is causing devastating wildfires across Montana’s Powder River Basin.

By Austyn Gaffney / High Country News

Posted on Aug 6, 2022 7:00 PM EDT

25 minute read

Scorched earth and vegetation from the Richard Springs Fire behind the home of Rae Peppers. The wildfire, ignited by a coal seam, grew quickly, trapping and killing Peppers' herd of draft horses. Louise Johns / High Country News