New Hampshire Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for New Hampshire - May 19, 2026

Overview

New Hampshire experienced a dry start to the 2026 spring season, which initially raised wildfire concerns across the state. However, recent weather patterns over the last 72 hours have brought significant precipitation, mitigating immediate fire hazards. The state's fire danger rating is currently low to moderate in most areas, though forestry officials continue to monitor conditions as the spring season progresses.
The current National Preparedness Level is 2, indicating that national resources are managing current incidents adequately.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Thanks to recent heavy rains, wildland fire activity in New Hampshire is currently minimal. Earlier in the month, dry conditions, low humidity, and gusty winds contributed to an uptick in brush fires. Fortunately, the wet weather over the past 72 hours has aided firefighters in containing these incidents and drastically reduced the potential for new significant wildfires over the next several days.

Key Fires:

• Patriot Fire: Located in Lancaster, this is the largest fire in the state this season, having burned approximately 200 acres. Fueled primarily by forest litter, dry timber, and dormant grasses, the fire is currently inactive. Recent rainfall has aided crews in keeping the fire footprint secure.
• Saw Fire: Located in Shirley, this fire has burned approximately 95 acres and is currently inactive following the recent precipitation.
• Deerfield Fire: Sparked by downed power lines earlier this month, this 5-alarm brush fire in Deerfield required a massive mutual aid response from surrounding communities. Driven by strong winds and fueled by dead trees and dry brush, crews have successfully contained the blaze and continue to monitor the area for hot spots.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, alongside the New Hampshire Forest Protection Bureau, is conducting a prescribed burn in the conservation zones near the Concord Municipal Airport. This operation aims to reduce dangerous accumulations of wood and restore habitat conditions capable of supporting rare wildlife, including the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly. Additionally, a prescribed burn of nearly 20 acres was recently completed in the Birch Ridge Community Forest in New Durham, and the U.S. Forest Service has planned several prescribed fires across the Androscoggin, Pemigewasset, and Saco Ranger Districts in the White Mountain National Forest.
Statewide, open burning of clean, ordinary combustibles requires written permission from the landowner and a fire permit from the local forest fire warden or fire department. Residential trash burning remains strictly prohibited by state law.

Air Quality: Precautions are being taken to limit smoke from the prescribed burns, particularly near the Concord Municipal Airport. While the smoke poses no imminent threat to public health, atmospheric conditions could change, creating temporary visibility hazards. Residents in the vicinity should remain aware.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: A wet weather pattern has moved across New Hampshire over the last 72 hours, bringing scattered thunderstorms and significant moisture that has aided firefighting efforts.
Forecasted Weather: Temperatures are expected to range from the 60s to lower 90s today with elevated humidity. The forecast for the remainder of the week includes partly sunny to cloudy conditions with periodic chances of rain and cooler temperatures. Due to the recent precipitation, there are currently no active Red Flag Warnings in effect for the state. However, officials warn that dead leaves, dry grass, and lingering debris can dry out quickly once the sun returns.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: While the immediate fire threat is low due to rain, residents are reminded to clear leaves and pine needles from roofs and gutters to reduce future risks. Anyone considering open burning must obtain a burning permit from local authorities and check the daily fire danger status.
Resource Allocation: With the reduced fire risk, local agencies are utilizing the wet weather to shift focus to essential training, including upcoming university extension events on prescribed fire management in Grafton County.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
New Hampshire Division of Forests and Lands: www.nh.gov/nhdfl
NH Department of Environmental Services (Open Burning): www.des.nh.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.