Maryland Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Maryland - August 26, 2026

Overview

Maryland is currently experiencing a low risk for significant wildfires. The state's primary fire seasons typically occur in the spring and fall when vegetation is driest. With recent summer humidity and the strict enforcement of the state's summer open-air burn ban, the threat of large-scale wildfires remains minimal. State and local fire resources are operating at normal preparedness levels and are fully capable of handling current incident volume.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the past 72 hours, there have been no significant wildland fires reported in Maryland. Local volunteer and career fire departments continue to handle any minor brush or outdoor fires swiftly through rapid initial attack, preventing them from spreading.

Key Fires:
There are no major active wildfires burning in Maryland at this time. The primary fuels in the region, including hardwood leaf litter, grasses, and underbrush, currently have sufficient moisture to prevent extreme fire behavior and limit ignition potential.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Maryland Department of the Environment's annual Open-Air Burn Ban is strictly in effect through August 31, 2026. This regulation (COMAR 26.11.07.03) prohibits most open burning—including brush, leaves, and trash—in Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George's counties, as well as Baltimore City. Because of these restrictions, large-scale prescribed burns by land management agencies are paused until the fall season.

Air Quality: While there are no local fires producing significant smoke, Maryland has experienced intermittent air quality impacts this summer due to smoke drifting south from large wildfires in Ontario, Canada, and northern Minnesota. Residents should continue to monitor local air quality alerts, as shifting winds can occasionally bring hazy skies and elevated fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) into the Mid-Atlantic region.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Over the last 72 hours, Maryland has experienced partly sunny conditions with temperatures in the mid-80s and moderate relative humidity around 50%.
Forecasted Weather: There are currently no Red Flag Warnings or fire weather watches in effect for Maryland. The forecast for the next 72 hours includes chances of scattered thunderstorms and light rain, with temperatures remaining in the 70s to mid-80s and humidity increasing to 70-80%. These conditions will further aid in keeping the fire risk low.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are reminded to strictly observe the open-air burn ban through the end of August. Burning brush, leaves, or construction debris is illegal during this time. Small recreational campfires and outdoor grilling are still permitted in most areas but should be properly contained within a non-combustible fire ring, attended at all times, and fully extinguished after use.
Resource Allocation: Maryland's fire departments remain well-equipped and ready to respond to any initial attacks. Agencies are using this time to maintain equipment and prepare for the upcoming fall wildfire season.

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 - Wildfire Information: dnr.maryland.gov/forests

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.