Delaware Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Delaware - July 13, 2026

Overview

Delaware's local wildland fire activity remains low, though the state is experiencing standard summer weather conditions. While the local threat is currently minimal, the National Preparedness Level is currently at 4. This indicates that national firefighting resources are heavily committed across multiple geographic areas due to a severe fire season nationwide, and mobilization trends are affecting all regions.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the past 72 hours, there have been no significant wildland fires reported in Delaware. State and local fire agencies remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any local incidents, while also monitoring the national situation to provide support and personnel where needed.

Key Fires:
There are currently no active significant wildland fires within Delaware. Because there are no large-scale wildland fires burning locally, there are no specific wildland fuel types actively feeding major incidents in the state at this time.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) reminds residents that the annual statewide open burning ban is in effect from May 1 through September 30. During this "Ozone Season," all prescribed burning for forest and land management, agricultural burns, and residential burning of yard waste (including leaves and branches) are strictly prohibited to protect air quality and reduce wildfire risks. Small recreational campfires, cooking fires, and ceremonial bonfires remain permitted.

Air Quality: The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delaware is currently in the Moderate range for both Ozone and PM2.5. A surface ridge of high pressure and sunny skies are contributing to these moderate levels, and officials are continuously monitoring high-altitude smoke patterns drifting from regional and national fires.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Conditions across Delaware are currently sunny with temperatures in the mid-70s and moderate humidity around 61%.
Forecasted Weather: Over the next 72 hours, temperatures are expected to rise into the low to mid-90s with partly sunny to mostly sunny skies. There are currently no Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches in effect for Delaware. However, residents should remain aware of the increasing heat and dry conditions heading into the middle of the week.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents and visitors must strictly adhere to the Ozone Season open burning ban. Even though local fire risk is low, it is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and to ensure any permitted recreational fires are fully extinguished—drown fires with plenty of water and stir to make sure everything is cold to the touch.
Resource Allocation: With the National Preparedness Level at 4, Delaware's trained wildland firefighters and resources remain ready. The Delaware Forest Service regularly deploys 20-person crews and equipment for out-of-state wildfire assignments to assist the national effort in controlling devastating wildfires in other regions.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Delaware Forest Service: agriculture.delaware.gov/forest-service
Delaware DNREC Air Quality Forecast: dnrec.delaware.gov/air/quality/forecast

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.