Maryland fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Maryland - March 27, 2025

#### Overview
Maryland is experiencing an increased fire risk due to recent dry and windy conditions, although the overall impact of wildfires in the state has been managed effectively in recent months. The Maryland Forest Service has reported a higher number of wildfires in 2024 compared to the ten-year average, but the acreage burned was significantly lower due to robust suppression efforts and outdoor burning bans[2][4][5].

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** A recent incident involved a 6-acre brush fire in Hunt Valley, which closed a portion of Maryland Route 45. The fire, which included a small shed and a vacant home, was extinguished without any reported injuries. This incident highlights the ongoing risk of wildfires in the state, particularly during periods of high fire danger[1].
- **Active Fires:** As of the latest reports, there are no large, uncontained wildfires currently burning in Maryland. However, the state remains vigilant due to the dry and windy conditions that have been prevalent.
- **Prescribed Burns:** The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is conducting controlled burns in various areas, such as the Dan’s Mountain Wildlife Management Area in Allegany County. These burns aim to improve habitat for wildlife and restore fire-dependent plant species, and residents may see smoke in these areas[4].

#### Key Details
- **Hunt Valley Fire:** On March 26, a 6-acre brush fire in Hunt Valley required the closure of Maryland Route 45. The fire was quickly contained, and no injuries were reported. A red flag warning was in effect for the Baltimore area, indicating high fire risk[1].
- **Prescribed Fires:** Controlled burns are ongoing in areas like Dan’s Mountain Wildlife Management Area to manage underbrush and ground cover debris. These operations are conducted under favorable weather conditions and are part of the state’s wildfire mitigation strategy[4].
- **Fire Risk:** Despite the lower acreage burned in 2024, the number of wildfires was higher than the ten-year average. Dry and windy conditions continue to pose a risk, and residents are advised to remain cautious and follow any burning bans or restrictions[2][4][5].

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents should be aware of fire traffic and potential smoke impacts from prescribed burns. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and to clear dead brush from properties to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
- **Resource Allocation:** Firefighters and support personnel are on standby to respond to any new fires. The public is encouraged to report any signs of wildfires promptly to the authorities.

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Maryland Forest Service:** [news.maryland.gov/dnr/tag/maryland-forest-service/](https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/tag/maryland-forest-service/)
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)
- **Maryland Emergency Management Agency:** [mema.maryland.gov](https://mema.maryland.gov/)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

CITATIONS

['https://foxbaltimore.com/news/local/fire-closes-maryland-route-45-hunt-valley-expect-major-delays', 'https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/tag/maryland-forest-service/', 'https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn', 'https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/', 'https://news.maryland.gov/dnr/tag/wildfire/']