Massachusetts Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Massachusetts - July 12, 2026

Overview

Massachusetts is currently experiencing elevated summer temperatures, maintaining a baseline risk for brush fires despite being outside of its traditional peak spring and fall fire seasons. A recent extreme heat advisory (July 9–10) brought heat indices up to 99 degrees to the region. While the state has seen a relatively low number of significant wildfires over the last 72 hours, the combination of high temperatures and periodic dry conditions requires continued vigilance. The current National Preparedness Level for the region remains stable, with local and state resources adequately managing current incidents and focusing on prevention.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, wildland fire activity across Massachusetts has been minimal. Local and regional firefighters have successfully contained recent small brush fires, and the potential for new significant wildfires to start in the next several days remains low. The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Bureau of Forest Fire Control continues to monitor conditions statewide. So far in 2026, the state has recorded very few high-confidence fire alerts, keeping overall fire activity well below record levels.

Key Fires:
There are currently no significant large-scale wildfires burning in Massachusetts. Small, localized brush fires have been swiftly contained by local authorities, posing no current threat to communities, property, or critical infrastructure.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management:
The statewide open air burning season officially ended on May 1, and a strict open burning ban remains in effect across all Massachusetts municipalities until January 15. Additionally, no outdoor fires—including fire pits, chimineas, and bonfires—are currently allowed in the City of Boston. The DCR and local fire departments are utilizing this period to focus on wildland fire safety training, hazardous fuel reduction (clearing dead vegetation, dry leaves, and brush), and infrastructure improvements under the ResilientMass Plan to protect communities in the Wildland-Urban Interface.

Air Quality:
Air quality across Massachusetts remains generally good. However, the state is actively monitoring two potential smoke sources: localized brush fires and transported smoke from Canadian wildfires (such as those in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Quebec). Upper-level atmospheric winds can occasionally carry plumes into New England, producing hazy skies and elevated PM2.5 readings. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection will issue county-specific air quality alerts if forecast models project unhealthy concentrations.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Following the recent heat wave, current conditions are sunny with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s in the morning to highs in the 80s, accompanied by moderate to high humidity.
Forecasted Weather: Currently, there are no Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches in effect for Massachusetts. The forecast calls for partly cloudy conditions with chances of light rain and scattered showers heading into the upcoming week. This anticipated precipitation will help increase fuel moisture in ground-level vegetation and keep the fire danger relatively low. Winds are expected to remain moderate, further reducing the risk of rapid fire spread.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: With the statewide open burning ban strictly enforced, the public must refrain from any outdoor burning. Residents are also reminded that fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts and pose a significant fire risk to dry summer fuels. Homeowners are strongly encouraged to implement Firewise precautions, such as maintaining a defensible space by clearing dead vegetation, dry leaves, and brush around their properties.
Resource Allocation: Local fire departments and the DCR remain prepared to respond to any new brush fire starts. Firefighters are utilizing this period of low fire activity to monitor contained firelines, conduct training, and focus on public safety and heat-relief efforts.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR): www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation
Massachusetts Air Quality and Smoke Map: www.mass.gov/info-details/massair-online

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.