Predicted rain could douse some wildfires in West

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The real possibility of significant rain — finally — could give a much-needed break to firefighters battling enormous wildfires up and down the Rocky Mountains.

Forecasters in Colorado, Wyoming and Montana say there’s a chance for strong thunderstorms across the region Thursday and in the days ahead.

Heavy rain could make a big difference against wildfires, including one that has burned nearly 400 square miles of ranchland in southeast Montana.

Firefighters also are optimistic about rainfall stifling a fire that forced the evacuation of dozens of forest cabins in southeast Wyoming, and a fire perilously close to the town of Newcastle in northeast Wyoming.

Thunderstorms aren’t always good news for firefighters in the West. They worry that gusty winds and lightning could make their job more difficult.