Pennsylvania fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Pennsylvania - March 27, 2025

#### Overview
Pennsylvania is experiencing an increased risk of wildfires due to the current dry conditions, particularly from the time the snow melts until the vegetation fully greens up, typically through the month of April. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is actively managing and responding to these fires, often in collaboration with local volunteer fire departments.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** The number of wildfire calls in Pennsylvania has been significant this year, with over 100 confirmed wildfires and nearly 9,200 acres burned as of the latest reports[1][3].
- **Active Fires:** A recent notable incident includes a 65-acre wildfire in Bedford County, reported on March 25, 2025, in the area of 9389 Black Valley Road in West Providence Township. This fire was contained with the assistance of aircraft and ground crews, and DCNR units remained on scene to monitor the area[3].
- **Prescribed Burns:** While there are no current prescribed burns mentioned in the latest reports, it is important to note that such operations are typically conducted to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations. Residents are advised to wait for safer conditions, such as after a rain event or when the grass is fully green, before engaging in any outdoor burning[1].

#### Key Details
- **Peak Season:** The period from when the snow melts until the vegetation fully greens up (through April) is identified as the peak season for local wildfires. During this time, the risk of wildfires is elevated due to dry conditions[1].
- **Leading Cause of Wildfires:** The primary cause of wildfires in Pennsylvania is accidental debris burning. Residents are cautioned to avoid outdoor burning until safer conditions prevail[1].
- **Recent Incidents:** Besides the Bedford County fire, there have been no other major wildfire incidents reported in the last few days. However, the state remains vigilant due to the ongoing dry conditions[3].

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents are advised to be mindful of fire traffic and potential smoke impacts. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and to clear dead brush from properties to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires[1].
- **Outdoor Burning:** Residents should avoid outdoor burning until the vegetation is fully green or after a significant rain event. This helps in reducing the risk of accidental wildfires[1].

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR):** DCNR provides daily statewide fire danger maps and situational reports of current conditions. This information helps in dictating staffing levels and alerting local volunteer fire departments and forest fire warden crews[1].
- **Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA):** PEMA issues daily incident reports that include updates on significant events, including wildfires. These reports can be accessed through the PEMA website[3][4].

#### Fire Weather and Wind Warnings
- **Adverse Weather Conditions:** Recently, Pennsylvania experienced severe thunderstorms that brought high winds and prompted Tornado Watches and Warnings in several western and central counties. While these conditions are not directly related to the current wildfire situation, they highlight the state's vulnerability to adverse weather events[4].

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly and adhering to the guidelines provided by state and local authorities.

CITATIONS

['https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPgelqBBAIY', 'https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn', 'https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/pema/documents/response/internal-operations/cwwc/daily-incident-reports/20250326%20daily%20report.pdf', 'https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/pema/documents/response/internal-operations/cwwc/daily-incident-reports/20250323%20daily%20report.pdf', 'https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/investigators/preview-the-risk-and-cost-of-wildfires-in-pennsylvania/4123803/']