Massachusetts Fires
Monitor wildfires in Massachusetts using our interactive fire map. Get real-time tracking on current and active fires in Massachusetts. Stay ahead with updated fire conditions.
Daily Wildfire Report
Daily Wildfire Report for Massachusetts - April 22, 2026
Overview
Massachusetts is currently facing an elevated wildfire risk driven by an extended dry spell, a lack of significant spring rain, and abnormally dry conditions in several western counties. This critical spring transition period, known by weather experts as the "pre-green up" stage, leaves freshly fallen leaves, dead vegetation, and dormant twiggy branches highly flammable. The current National Preparedness Level is 2, indicating that while national fire activity is relatively light, certain geographic areas are experiencing increased activity and interagency resource sharing is actively underway.
Current Situation
Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, fire departments across Massachusetts have responded to a sudden and continued uptick in active brush fires. The excessively dry conditions mean that fires are spreading quickly through light, dead fuels. State and local authorities are working aggressively to suppress these blazes with significant mutual aid while monitoring the elevated risk for new starts.
Key Fires:
- Greenfield Brush Fire: Located in Franklin County near Wisdom Way, this fast-moving fire burned approximately 15 acres. Caused by sparks from a passing train, the fire crossed Interstate 91, forcing temporary highway shutdowns in both directions. Several structures, including a health care center and residential buildings, were threatened but successfully protected by structural protection crews. The fire was fueled by highly combustible dry grass, dead limbs, and dormant vegetation.
- Ludlow / Westover Industrial Fire: Originating from a prescribed burn at the Westover Air Reserve Base that escaped containment due to high wind gusts, this fire jumped the base perimeter and ignited a nearby industrial plumbing supplier facility. The 3-alarm blaze burned a large quantity of highly flammable PVC pipes, generating massive plumes of dark black smoke visible across surrounding communities.
Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Trustees of Reservations are conducting prescribed burns this week as part of a barrens management program, including operations at Wasque on Chappaqu