Puerto Rico Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Puerto Rico - August 25, 2026

Overview

Puerto Rico is experiencing an elevated fire risk driven by extreme drought conditions affecting portions of eastern Puerto Rico and the southern coastal plains. The combination of critically low relative humidity, stressed vegetation, and exceptionally dry fuels has created a highly volatile environment for wildfires. In response to the unprecedented surge in fire activity, a state of emergency has been declared under Executive Order 2026-033, activating the Puerto Rico National Guard to assist in the crisis. Over 1,982 forest fires have been reported so far this year, already surpassing the annual totals for both 2024 and 2025.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: There are currently multiple active brush and forest fires across the island, with the most significant activity concentrated in the southern and southwestern regions. Firefighters, forestry units, and municipal emergency management personnel are working continuously to contain these fast-moving incidents amid critically dry conditions, supported by National Guard resources.

Key Fires:
Guánica Area Fire: Located in the Guánica municipality, this large fire has spread across at least one square mile and is burning dangerously close to Highway PR-2. It is primarily fueled by highly stressed coastal vegetation and dry brush. The fire has threatened critical infrastructure and caused heavy traffic delays. Crews are working with limited local resources to reinforce containment lines and protect nearby values at risk.

Cayey Area Fire (Monte Gallo Sector): Firefighters from Cayey and Caguas, alongside forestry units from Juncos and Ponce, are actively battling this significant blaze in the central region. The fire is fueled by critically dry brush, tall grass, and drought-stressed timber. The Puerto Rico National Guard has been activated to provide personnel and helicopter support to manage the incident and prevent further spread into populated zones.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: Due to the severe drought and critical fuel conditions, local officials are strongly urging residents and visitors to avoid all outdoor burning. Prescribed burn operations and land management activities requiring fire have been halted, as current conditions will easily support accidental wildfire ignition and rapid spread.
Air Quality: Smoke from the active fires, particularly in the Cayey region, is impacting nearby communities, including the Los Paganes, Sumido, and Cercadillo neighborhoods. Residents in these areas are advised to remain indoors when possible, keep windows closed, and follow safety instructions from emergency personnel.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: The region is experiencing near-record dry conditions with elevated fire danger across southern and southwestern Puerto Rico. Fuels remain exceptionally dry, and the lack of recent rainfall has kept the fire threat critical.
Forecasted Weather: Red Flag Warnings and Fire Danger Statements have been frequently issued for the coastal plains and hills of southern Puerto Rico and Vieques over the last 72 hours. Winds from the east at 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph, combined with relative humidity dropping into the mid-40s, continue to create critical fire weather. A gradual increase in moisture is expected later in the week as a vigorous tropical wave approaches the islands, which is anticipated to aid firefighting efforts.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are advised to be highly mindful of fire traffic and avoid areas affected by heavy smoke. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place, avoid any outdoor activities that could spark a fire, and secure loose objects that could be blown away by strong winds.
Resource Allocation: The Puerto Rico National Guard is providing crucial personnel and aviation support for fire suppression. Additionally, organizations like the Salvation Army have been deployed to provide support and relief to affected communities.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
National Weather Service - San Juan Fire Weather: www.weather.gov/sju/fire
Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau (NMEAD): manejodeemergencias.pr.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.