Mississippi Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Mississippi - August 25, 2026

Overview

Mississippi is experiencing an elevated fire risk due to hot, dry conditions as the state approaches its fall wildfire season. Dry conditions have intensified, leading to a rapid onset of drought across much of the state. The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), which measures soil moisture deficiency, is currently above 600 across most of Mississippi, with about half the state registering above 700, indicating extreme drought conditions. This combination of factors has made vegetation and other fuels increasingly dry and highly receptive to fire, creating potentially risky situations for wildfires statewide.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently multiple active fires in Mississippi. The Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) and partner agencies are actively battling several wildfires, primarily in the southern half of the state. When combined with high temperatures, low humidity, and wind, fires are igniting easily and spreading rapidly.

Key Fires:

• Jackson - Hwy 90 Fire: Located in Jackson County, approximately five miles northeast of Moss Point, this is the most significant active wildfire in the state, having burned more than 1,400 acres. It is currently 65% contained. The fire is being fueled by "southern rough," which includes highly receptive dry timber, pine needles, and coastal brush. Firefighters have worked to protect homes and structures in the area, and nearby railroad infrastructure remains threatened. While fire behavior is currently minimal on the ground, dry conditions and challenging terrain have complicated suppression efforts.
• Hancock - Texas Flat Road Fire: Located six miles southeast of Picayune in Hancock County, this fire has consumed 408 acres of private land and is currently 80% contained. It is also being fueled by southern rough. Fire behavior has been minimal recently, but crews remain assigned to secure the perimeter and monitor for hotspots.
• Widow Fire: Located 10 miles southeast of Laurel in Jones County, this fire has burned approximately 78 acres and remains active.
• Hurricane Fire: A smaller active wildfire located in Harrison County that has burned approximately 16 acres.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Due to the extreme drought and elevated wildfire danger, the Mississippi Forestry Commission has halted prescribed burning operations in affected areas. Furthermore, 30-day outdoor burn bans have been enacted in at least 11 counties, including Rankin, Jefferson, Covington, Grenada, Pike, Lawrence, Walthall, Copiah, Franklin, Simpson, and Jefferson Davis counties. During these bans, anything with an open flame that produces an ember—including campfires, bonfires, burn barrels, and debris burning—is strictly prohibited. There are no exemptions for agricultural or prescribed burns under these county-level bans.

Air Quality: Smoke from the active fires in the southern portion of the state may impact local air quality. Residents near the Jackson - Hwy 90 Fire and Hancock - Texas Flat Road Fire should remain aware of smoke conditions, particularly those with respiratory issues.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: The region is experiencing extreme heat and dry conditions. While there are slight chances of scattered showers and thunderstorms in some areas, the rainfall has not been sufficient to alleviate the severe fire hazard or deeply penetrate the dry soil.
Forecasted Weather: While widespread Red Flag Warnings are not currently issued, the National Weather Service and the MFC warn that the combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and occasional gusty winds will continue to create dangerous fire-spread conditions over the next 72 hours. A single spark can easily ignite a wildfire under these conditions, and winds can carry embers up to one-half mile away to start spot fires.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are strongly advised to comply with all local burn bans and postpone any outdoor burning until sufficient rainfall alleviates the fire hazard. It is crucial to be mindful of fire traffic and potential smoke impacts. Anyone who sees a wildfire should report it immediately by calling 911 or contacting the MFC's Central Dispatch.
Resource Allocation: Local fire departments and MFC wildland firefighters are working under challenging, hot conditions. Agencies are continuously monitoring weather conditions and the KBDI to allocate resources effectively. Forestry officials are also conducting forest health assessments to evaluate tree damage from past weather events, which has increased downed wood debris and elevated wildfire risks across the state.

Resources

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

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.