Subdued National Fire Activity as Autumn Weather Moderates Wildfire Spread

The nation remains at Preparedness Level 1 with minimal resource strain, even as season-to-date burned area continues to track well above the ten-year average. Five uncontained large fires remain under suppression nationwide across northern and southern regions. Favorable autumn conditions and incoming precipitation are expected to help crews manage activity across active incidents.

Significant Fires

• Wild River Fire (New Hampshire) — Burning in the White Mountain National Forest southeast of Gorham, the fire grew significantly overnight in rugged terrain and heavy leaf litter. While no structures are threatened, forest officials have closed surrounding roads and trails to ensure public safety.
• Sisi Fire (Washington) — Located northwest of Stehekin, the fire continues creeping in timber litter while threatening backcountry homes and local utility infrastructure. Area trail closures remain in place, though incoming Pacific moisture and mountain rain are expected to limit spread.
• Ridge Fire (Michigan) — Northwest of Marquette, the fire is burning deep in the forest duff layer, keeping local recreational trails closed. Precautionary evacuation notices for nearby residents have been lifted as suppression operations continue.
• Bee Haven 2 Fire (Florida) — The fire is smoldering with minimal activity northwest of Lake City. No structures are threatened, and state personnel remain assigned to maintain containment lines.
• BSP Cactus Fire (Tennessee) — Burning east of Jamestown in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, the fire is contained as crews carry out mop-up operations.

Conditions and Outlook

No Red Flag Warnings or critical fire-weather watches are in effect across the country, with overall fire potential remaining low nationwide. In the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, cooling temperatures and incoming rain showers will assist ongoing suppression efforts over the coming days. Dry conditions and seasonal leaf fall maintain elevated fire danger across parts of the Mid-South and Lower Mississippi Valley.

Burn Bans and Land Management

Forest closures and trail restrictions are in place across the White Mountain National Forest, the Chelan Ranger District, and the Noquemanon Trail network, while state officials advise heightened fire caution across New York.

What Residents Should Do

• Check AirNow.gov for smoke plume movement and local air quality ratings.
• Adhere strictly to all national forest road and trail closures.
• Follow local burn advisories and avoid open burning in dry, leaf-covered areas.