Rhode Island fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Rhode Island - March 27, 2025

#### Overview
Rhode Island is experiencing an elevated risk of wildfires due to unseasonably warm and dry conditions this March. The state's forests, typically less prone to significant fire activity at this time of year, are now at a higher risk due to the early warming of the weather.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** As of March 2025, Rhode Island has already reported 15 wildland fires, which is above the usual average for this time of year. The total acres burned have exceeded 30 acres, significantly higher than the typical 11 acres seen in March[2].
- **Active Fires:** While specific details on current active fires are not available, the recent increase in fire incidents indicates ongoing fire activity. Firefighters and wildland fire supervisors are actively managing these fires.
- **Prescribed Burns:** There is no current information on prescribed burns being conducted in Rhode Island. However, the state's wildland fire management strategies often include such operations to reduce fuel loads and mitigate wildfire risk.

#### Key Details
- **Fire Risk:** The fire risk in Rhode Island has increased due to the early warming of the weather, leading to dry conditions that are conducive to wildfires. This is particularly concerning given the historical context of significant fires in the state, such as those in April 2023 that affected Exeter and West Greenwich[2].
- **Firefighter Resources:** The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has recently trained 46 new wildland firefighters, including volunteer firefighters and DEM employees. Additional training is scheduled for June to enhance firefighting capabilities[2].
- **Burn Bans:** There are no specific burn bans mentioned for Rhode Island, but the general advice is to avoid outdoor burning due to the high fire danger. This is in line with broader regional recommendations to heed burn bans and avoid starting fires under windy and dry conditions[3].

#### Fire Weather and Wind Warnings
- **Weather Conditions:** The weather forecast indicates that while there may be some rain expected later in March, it is unlikely to be a soaking downpour that could significantly reduce the fire risk. Warmer and windier weather is expected to continue, which will keep fire danger elevated[5].
- **Wind and Dry Conditions:** The combination of high winds and dry conditions is a significant concern for wildfire spread. Residents are advised to be cautious and avoid any activities that could ignite fires.

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents are urged 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.
- **Resource Allocation:** Firefighters are working under challenging conditions, and the public is encouraged to support their efforts by following all safety guidelines and avoiding activities that could start new fires.

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM):** [www.dem.ri.gov](https://www.dem.ri.gov)
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)
- **New Jersey Forest Fire Service Dashboard:** While not specific to Rhode Island, this resource provides regional insights into fire danger and management strategies[5].

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

CITATIONS

['https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn', 'https://turnto10.com/news/local/ri-department-of-environmental-management-prepares-for-fire-season', 'https://www.clickorlando.com/news/2025/03/26/more-evacuations-as-wildfires-burn-in-the-carolinas-forecasts-arent-encouraging-for-firefighters/', 'https://gacc.nifc.gov/sacc/predictive/intelligence/sa_detailed_sit_rpt.pdf', 'https://www.drought.gov/drought-status-updates/drought-status-update-northeast-2025-03-14']