Delaware Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Delaware - August 5, 2026

Overview

Delaware is currently experiencing a low risk for wildfires, aided by high humidity and recent scattered precipitation across the region. Because local fire danger is minimal, the state's forestry and emergency personnel are able to focus on prevention and assist with severe fire activity occurring elsewhere in the country. The current National Preparedness Level is 5, indicating that national wildland firefighting resources are heavily committed to large incidents, particularly in the Pacific Northwest and other western regions.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, there have been no significant wildland fires reported in Delaware. Firefighters and local departments continue to respond to routine calls, but no large-scale fires are threatening communities or infrastructure. The potential for new significant wildfires to ignite in the coming days remains very low for the state.

Key Fires:
There are currently no active significant wildfires within Delaware's borders. Consequently, there are no immediate threats to life, property, or values at risk, and no major wildland fuels are currently feeding any fires in the state.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Delaware is currently under its annual statewide open burning ban, which runs through the "Ozone Season" from May 1 to September 30, 2026. The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) strictly prohibits most outdoor burning during this time to protect air quality and reduce fire risk. Exceptions are made for small cooking fires, recreational campfires, and ceremonial bonfires, provided they use approved fuels like firewood or propane and remain under 27 cubic feet in size.

Air Quality: Air quality is currently acceptable across most of the state. While local fires are not producing smoke, residents should remain aware that Air Quality Action Days can be declared if ozone levels rise or if out-of-state wildfire smoke moves into the region. On designated Action Days, all open burning—including otherwise permitted campfires—is strictly prohibited.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Conditions across Delaware are mostly cloudy with high humidity levels (ranging from 70% to 96%) and temperatures in the mid-70s. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are present in the region, which is helping to keep the local fire danger low.
Forecasted Weather: Over the next 72 hours, temperatures are expected to rise into the upper 80s and low 90s. However, periodic chances of scattered thunderstorms and rain will persist through the end of the week. There are currently no Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches in effect for Delaware, and winds are expected to remain mild.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are reminded to strictly follow the statewide Ozone Season open burning ban and ensure that any permitted recreational fires are completely extinguished before being left unattended. It is always a good practice to have an emergency plan in place and to clear dead brush and yard waste from properties to reduce the risk of accidental fires.
Resource Allocation: Due to the low fire risk at home, the Delaware Forest Service is actively supporting national wildfire suppression efforts. Delaware has recently deployed a 17-member hand crew and a Type 6 Wildland Fire Engine crew to assist with the Bear Trap Fire and other lightning-caused wildfires burning in remote terrain in northern Minnesota.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC): dnrec.alpha.delaware.gov
Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA): dema.delaware.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.