Guam Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Guam - May 20, 2026

Overview

Guam is currently experiencing a low-to-moderate wildfire risk. While the island is in the latter part of its traditional dry season, recent scattered thunderstorms and high humidity levels have provided essential moisture to the region. The island continues its recovery from the impacts of April's Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which left downed vegetation and debris across the territory. The current local preparedness level remains stable, and the National Preparedness Level is 2, indicating that national resources are currently sufficient to manage incidents without severe strain.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, wildland fire activity across Guam has been minimal, with no significant large-scale wildfires reported. The recent rainfall has significantly dampened the island's fire-prone savanna vegetation and tall grasses, which typically fuel rapid fire spread during dry, windy conditions. Firefighters and emergency personnel are maintaining readiness while continuing to support broader island safety and post-typhoon recovery efforts. (Note: A structural fire did occur in Dededo late Tuesday evening, but it was quickly contained by the Guam Fire Department and did not spread to surrounding wildlands).

Key Fires:
There are currently no large, uncontained wildfires threatening communities or values at risk in Guam. When wildland fires do occur in the region, they are typically fueled by fire-prone savanna vegetation, which accounts for up to 23% of the land area in the Marianas chain.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Guam Forestry continues its mission to conserve and protect the island's vegetative environment. Land management activities are currently focused on clearing downed trees and green waste resulting from Typhoon Sinlaku. Following the expiration of temporary fuel storage and fire permit waivers at the end of April, standard fire regulations are in full effect. Nationally, recent federal policy shifts have placed new restrictions on prescribed burning on public lands, but local efforts in Guam remain heavily focused on safe post-typhoon debris management.

Air Quality: With no significant active wildfires and scattered thunderstorms in the area, air quality remains generally good across the island. Residents should still exercise caution and limit exposure if they are in the immediate vicinity of permitted green waste burning.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Scattered thunderstorms and high humidity (ranging from 78% to 86%) are present across Guam, aiding in keeping the fire danger low. The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) is currently around 250, which remains in the low category for fire danger. Temperatures are currently in the mid-80s.
Forecasted Weather: The National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, reports that there are currently no active Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches in effect. Scattered to heavy thunderstorms are expected to continue over the next 72 hours, bringing additional moisture to the area. Winds are expected to remain moderate, though residents should always remain vigilant as tropical weather conditions can shift rapidly.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are reminded that all open burning of green waste or debris requires a formal Guam Fire Department (GFD) burning permit to prevent accidental and escaped fires. Open burning without a permit can lead to citations and fines ranging from $100 to $1,000. Even during periods of low fire danger, it is crucial to maintain a defensible space around your home by clearing dead leaves, dry brush, and debris from roofs, gutters, and yards. Have an emergency plan in place and a "go-bag" packed with essential documents and supplies.
Resource Allocation: Local fire departments are focused on enforcing standard fire regulations, community education, and debris management to prevent human-caused ignitions. Firefighters are maintaining readiness while supporting post-typhoon recovery.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Guam Homeland Security / Office of Civil Defense: ghs.guam.gov
National Weather Service - Tiyan, Guam: weather.gov/gum

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.