New Hampshire Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for New Hampshire - August 23, 2026

Overview

New Hampshire is currently managing localized wildfire activity. While recent light rain and high humidity have temporarily reduced the immediate surface fire danger, underlying persistent drought conditions and warmer-than-normal temperatures across New England have kept the overall wildfire risk elevated for the season. Depleted near-surface aquifers and dry soils continue to be a concern for the region. The national preparedness level remains high, with federal and state resources actively engaged to manage incidents.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, wildland firefighting efforts in New Hampshire have been focused on the White Mountains region, as well as responding to smaller brush fires along highway corridors. Thanks to recent precipitation and higher humidity, new fire spread has been limited, but crews are actively working to secure perimeters in steep, rocky environments that make direct access difficult.

Key Fires:
Rattlesnake Fire: Located near the summit of the Rattlesnake Mountain Trail in Rumney, NH, this wildfire has burned approximately 30 acres and is currently 50% contained. Burning on White Mountain National Forest land, the fire is fueled by heavy timber, understory brush, and dry forest litter. Crews from the U.S. Forest Service, Green Mountain National Forest, and state agencies are working together on containment. The steep and rugged terrain has made the response especially difficult from the beginning.

Epping Brush Fire: A smaller, active brush fire was reported along Route 101 in Epping, NH over the weekend. Local fire crews quickly responded to douse the flames near the highway, preventing further spread into nearby dry vegetation.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, along with the Division of Forests and Lands, routinely prepares for and conducts prescribed burns to manage fuel loads, restore critical habitats (such as the state's pine and blueberry barrens), and reduce the risk of unmanageable wildfires. Residents are reminded that local burn permits are required for any outdoor burning, and strict category restrictions apply based on daily fire danger levels.
Air Quality: Smoke from the Rattlesnake Fire and localized mop-up operations may impact visibility and air quality in the immediate vicinities, particularly near Rumney and the White Mountain National Forest. Residents in these areas should remain aware and use caution if they have respiratory sensitivities.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Light rain and high humidity (around 90%) are present across central and southern New Hampshire today, aiding firefighting efforts and temporarily lowering the fire danger to "Low" (Class 1) for the weekend across Fire Danger Rating Areas (FDRAs) 1-6. Temperatures are currently in the upper 60s.
Forecasted Weather: Showers and mostly cloudy conditions are expected to continue into the early week, keeping temperatures in the 70s with light winds. While there are no Red Flag Warnings currently in effect, scientists warn that underlying drought conditions persist in the region, meaning the risk of rapid fire spread could return once the weather dries out.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents and visitors are advised to be mindful of fire traffic and potential smoke impacts, particularly near the White Mountain National Forest. It is crucial to adhere to all local burn permit requirements and avoid outdoor burning when conditions are dry. Given the regional drought conditions, water conservation and clearing dead brush from properties are highly recommended to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
Resource Allocation: Firefighters are working under challenging terrain conditions. Federal agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service, have taken control of the Rattlesnake Fire response, coordinating with local and state departments to ensure effective suppression and mop-up operations while national resources remain heavily committed elsewhere.

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
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department: www.wildlife.nh.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.