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Office of Emergency Management

Evacuation Process

Orders vs. Warnings

Missoula County uses a two-stage evacuation process:

  1. Evacuation WARNING: Current or projected hazards may require immediate evacuation. This is a good time for final preparation like checking your "go bag" and moving people who need extra help. 
  2. Evacuation ORDER: Conditions present an imminent threat, danger or loss of life to people in the affected area. A slow-moving emergency vehicle with sirens and lights, loudspeaker announcements and/or text alerts via Smart911 all indicate it's time to go now.

While every effort will be made to first issue an evacuation warning, an evacuation order may be issued during a rapidly unfolding event with no prior notice or warning. The Missoula County Sheriff's Office issues evacuation notices. Remember that you do not have to wait for an order in order to evacuate. Evacuating early gives more time for disaster response.

Follow the Missoula County Sheriff's Office on social media

The Missoula County Sheriff's Office issues evacuation notices and posts on Instagram @msco200 and on Facebook at @MissoulaCountySheriffsOffice


How To Plan

  • Pack a "go bag" with clothes, food, medical needs, cash and your digital devices.
  • Not sure what to bring? Remember the 5 P's! People, prescriptions, pets, papers and priceless or personal items.
  • Make a plan for your livestock using resources from the Missoula County Dept. of Ecology and Extension.
  • Sign up for Smart911.
  • Talk to members of your household about different ways out of your house and neighborhood and where you would meet up if you got separated. 
  • Stay informed about current conditions through County social media platforms, local news, Inciweb or official message boards placed in the affected areas.

  • If an evacuation order has been issued, leave immediately. Do not attempt to gather items in your home. 
  • Identify a place to go. Call the disaster info line at 406-258-4636 for local shelter information during an evacuation.
  • Follow formal evacuation routes. Do not take short cuts.
  • Do not return to your home or neighborhood until the order has been rescinded.

  • The Missoula County Sheriff's Office is the only agency that can lift or rescind an evacuation order. Remember that while the immediate hazard may be over, other dangers may be present like downed power lines. These utility issues need to be addressed before it's safe for you to return home.
  • Carefully inspect your home for issues like the smell of gas, leaks, damage to your roof and other areas.