Cooler weather and precipitation keep national wildfire activity subdued

National fire activity remains at Preparedness Level 1, reflecting minimal strain on firefighting resources nationwide. While overall activity has slowed with the season, cumulative fires and burned land this year remain well above the ten-year national average. Ground crews continue to manage only a small number of uncontained large fires, primarily in the Northeast and Northwest.

Significant Fires

• Wild River Fire (New Hampshire) — Burning in steep terrain within the White Mountain National Forest southeast of Gorham, crews are securing lines and mopping up smoldering duff and fallen hardwood leaves. Wild River Road and several connecting hiking trails remain closed to protect the public, though no communities are currently threatened.
• Ridge Fire (Michigan) — Located north of Negaunee in the Upper Peninsula, the fire is largely surrounded by containment lines following recent rainfall and skidder-assisted suppression operations. Ground crews are continuing mop-up work with no structures threatened.
• Sisi Fire (Washington) — Burning northwest of Stehekin in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, recent rain and high-elevation mountain snowfall have significantly curtailed surface fire activity. Public trail closures remain in effect across the area, including a section of the Pacific Crest Trail.
• Bee Haven 2 Fire (Florida) — Burning northwest of Lake City in Hamilton County, the fire has held its perimeter with no recent growth. Firefighters continue to monitor and secure control lines as fuels smolder deep in wetland muck.

Conditions and Outlook

Critical fire weather remains minimal across most of the country as recent Southern California Santa Ana winds subside. Pacific storms and incoming winter weather will bring rain, mountain snow, and cool temperatures to aid containment across the Northwest and Northeast. Calm conditions and elevated humidity are forecast to dominate fire areas over the next 72 hours.

Burn Bans and Land Management

Emergency closures remain active across portions of the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in Washington to keep recreationists away from active fire corridors. Hillside parklands and open-flame activities in parts of Southern California were recently placed under local restrictions during high-wind advisories.

What Residents Should Do

• Respect all forest order closures and stay off trails near active firefighting operations.
• Avoid outdoor burning, equipment use, and open flames during dry or breezy conditions.
• Keep hillside corridors unobstructed to ensure emergency vehicle access.