Mississippi Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Mississippi - April 23, 2026

Overview

Mississippi is experiencing an elevated fire risk due to an exceptionally active spring fire season driven by rapidly intensifying drought conditions, unseasonably warm temperatures, and dry surface fuels. The combination of dormant vegetation and critical fire weather has led to potentially risky situations for wildfires across the state and the broader Southeastern region.
The current National Preparedness Level is 2, indicating that while active geographic areas are experiencing localized fire activity that may require national support, overall resource capability remains stable nationwide.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently active fires in Mississippi, and significant wildland fire activity is occurring across the Southern Area. The potential for new significant wildfires to start in the next several days is above normal for this time of year due to critically low humidity and gusty winds. Firefighters are working aggressively to contain these fires using a full suppression strategy while also preparing for potential new starts.

Key Fires:
Big Hungry Fire: Located in Carroll County near Coila and Black Hawk, this fire burned 4,246 acres, making it the second-largest wildfire in Mississippi history. While it reached 100% containment earlier this month, over the last 72 hours firefighters have remained on the scene to monitor the perimeter, extinguish interior hotspots, and ensure no new flare-ups occur. The fire exhibited explosive growth fueled by heavy debris, dead timber, and young pine trees left behind by a severe January ice storm and 2023 tornado damage.

Smoke Show Fire: Located in Perry County near New Augusta, within the National Forests in Mississippi, this fire was initially reported on April 13, 2026. As of the latest updates over the last 72 hours, it has burned approximately 500 acres and is currently 0% contained. The fire has been growing rapidly, primarily fueled by dry vegetation, dead timber, and heavy brush. The fuel load in this area is exceptionally high due to debris left behind by previous severe weather events. Crews are continuing aggressive containment and mop-up operations to secure the perimeter, though the abundance of dead timber poses a significant risk for flare-ups.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Due to the elevated fire risk, the Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) continues to monitor land and fuel loads. Outdoor burn bans have been issued and remain in effect for several counties, including Lafayette, Grenada, Carroll, Clay, Lowndes, Noxubee, Benton, Lee, and Marshall. These bans prohibit any outdoor burning of any kind, including campfires, bonfires, and debris burning.
Air Quality: Smoke from active wildfires, such as the Smoke Show Fire, may impact local air quality in Perry County and surrounding areas. Residents in affected areas should remain aware of smoke dispersion and use caution, especially those with respiratory conditions.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Conditions across central and southern Mississippi are dry, with dormant vegetation and historically dry surface fuels increasing fire susceptibility.
Forecasted Weather: The National Weather Service in Jackson has issued Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches for portions of central Mississippi and surrounding zones. Critical fire weather conditions are expected through the next 24 to 72 hours, driven by west to northwest wind gusts reaching 25 to 30 mph and relative humidity dropping as low as 8 to 12 percent. A strong drying trend is present, and any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. However, scattered thunderstorms and rain are forecasted heading into the weekend, which may aid suppression efforts.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are advised to strictly adhere to local county burn bans and avoid any outdoor burning. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place, remain cautious of fire equipment operating in the area, and clear dead brush from properties to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters are working under challenging conditions, navigating steep terrain and heavy fuel loads. Agencies, including the Mississippi Forestry Commission and the US Forest Service, are utilizing a full suppression strategy and actively managing incidents to protect local communities and forest ecosystems.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC): www.mfc.ms.gov
Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA): www.msema.org

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.