Maryland Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Maryland - July 13, 2026

Overview

Maryland is currently experiencing a generally low wildland fire risk due to the summer green-up and recent humidity, though warm temperatures persist across the region. The current National Preparedness Level for the United States is 4, indicating that national firefighting resources are heavily committed across the country. However, local resources in Maryland are not currently heavily engaged in significant wildland fire incidents and remain well-positioned for initial attack responses.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the past 72 hours, there has been no significant wildland fire activity reported in Maryland. Firefighters and local emergency responders remain in a state of readiness, but the combination of summer vegetation moisture and high relative humidity has kept fire behavior minimal.

Key Fires: There are currently no significant active wildfires burning in Maryland. Should a fire ignite, typical fuels in the region include hardwood timber, dry leaf litter, and understory brush, which currently remain sufficiently moist to prevent rapid fire spread.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Maryland Department of the Environment's annual open burning prohibition is currently in effect and will run through August 31. This ban applies to Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George's counties, as well as Baltimore City. During this time, open burning—including brush and tree limb piles, yard waste, and debris burns—is strictly prohibited to protect air quality and reduce fire risks. Exceptions are made for small recreational campfires and agricultural operations.

Air Quality: Air quality remains generally good across the state, with no significant smoke impacts from local wildfires or prescribed burns at this time.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Conditions across much of Maryland currently feature sunny skies with temperatures in the upper 70s to mid-80s and moderate to high humidity (around 60-70%). This moisture is actively aiding in keeping the fire danger low.

Forecasted Weather: No Red Flag Warnings or fire weather watches are currently in effect for Maryland. The forecast for the next 72 hours includes a mix of sunny skies and increasing temperatures into the 90s, with periodic chances of light rain and scattered thunderstorms developing by mid-week. Relative humidity will remain high enough to prevent critical fire weather conditions, and winds are expected to remain mild and variable.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Even with low fire danger, residents are advised to remain vigilant. When enjoying recreational campfires, ensure they are kept small (no larger than 3' x 3'), contained by a non-flammable barrier like rocks or concrete, and never left unattended. Ensure all fires are completely extinguished before leaving the area.

Resource Allocation: With the National Preparedness Level at 4, local agencies remain prepared to support national efforts if requested, while maintaining adequate initial attack capabilities for any local natural cover fires.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Maryland Department of Natural Resources - Forest Service: dnr.maryland.gov/forests
Maryland Department of the Environment (Burn Ban Info): mde.maryland.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.