Maryland Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Maryland - May 13, 2026

Overview

Maryland is currently navigating its spring wildfire season, a period when forest fuels can dry out rapidly before the tree canopy fully greens up. However, the combination of recent weather patterns, including light rain and moisture, has kept the overall fire risk manageable across the state. The current National Preparedness Level for the United States is 2, reflecting steady but manageable wildland fire activity as we move further into the spring season.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently no major active large wildfires reported in Maryland over the last 72 hours. Local fire departments and the Maryland Forest Service continue to monitor conditions and respond to minor incidents, such as a truck that caught fire while driving through a dry field in Dorchester County on May 12. Firefighters remain prepared for potential new starts, as spring is historically a period of heightened fire risk in the state.

Key Fires:
(There are currently no significant large wildfires active in Maryland.)
While there are no major active fires to report, it is important to note that the primary fuels of concern during Maryland's spring fire season are surface fuels. These include dry grasses, leaf litter, twigs, and underbrush, which can dry out quickly on sunny, windy days and serve as the main carrier for potential ignitions.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is actively conducting a series of prescribed burns along the lower Eastern Shore in Worcester and Wicomico Counties. These operations are planned to run through mid-May 2026, as weather and site conditions allow. Specific target locations include the Furnace Town Complex and Foster Tract Recreational Area outside Snow Hill, as well as the Wicomico Demonstration Forest outside Pittsville. These low, controlled flames are utilized to consume hazardous surface fuels, improve forest health, reduce the risk of severe wildfires, and enhance habitat for native species such as the northern bobwhite quail.

Air Quality: Residents and visitors on the lower Eastern Shore, particularly near Snow Hill and Pittsville, may see and smell smoke in the area due to these planned, controlled fires.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Recent conditions in the region have brought light rain and mostly cloudy skies. For today, May 13, the forecast for areas like Baltimore includes light rain with temperatures ranging from 54°F to 74°F and humidity around 48% to 72%. This precipitation and moisture will aid in keeping fuel moisture levels stable and mitigating fire danger.

Forecasted Weather: There are currently no Red Flag Warnings or fire weather watches in effect for Maryland. The National Weather Service and Maryland DNR continuously monitor wind, relative humidity, and fuel moisture. The incoming light rain and milder, cloudy temperatures expected through the end of the week will help keep the fire danger relatively low. However, residents should remain vigilant as conditions can change rapidly on dry, windy days.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are urged to be mindful of outdoor burning practices, as improper debris burning is historically a leading cause of wildfires in the state, accounting for roughly 36% of fires. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and to clear dead brush and leaves from properties to reduce the risk of accidental fires spreading to structures. If outdoor burning is conducted, it should only be done on low fire danger days and in accordance with all state and local regulations.

Resource Allocation: Firefighters remain prepared for potential new starts and are working proactively. Agencies are conducting fuel mitigation projects, such as the prescribed burns on the Eastern Shore, to clear high-risk areas and reduce the severity of future fires.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov
Maryland Department of Natural Resources: dnr.maryland.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.