Vermont Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Vermont - June 23, 2026

Overview

Vermont is currently experiencing a low fire risk, benefiting from a recent pattern of scattered showers, wetting rains, and cooler temperatures across the region. This precipitation has kept fuel moisture levels high, significantly mitigating the risk of new fire starts. The current Vermont Statewide Preparedness Level is 1, indicating minimal local wildland fire activity. The Eastern Area Preparedness Level is 1, while the National Preparedness Level is currently at 3.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, wildland fire activity has been minimal in Vermont due to highly favorable weather conditions. Year-to-date, the state has recorded 61 wildland fires burning a total of 255 acres. Firefighters and local agencies continue to monitor conditions, but the recent and forecasted precipitation has kept the threat of new ignitions very low. (Note: While wildland fire activity is low, local resources remain active; on June 23, crews from over 20 departments responded to a significant structural barn fire in Thetford that threatened a nearby residence).

Key Fires:

• Dragon Brook Fire: Located near the town line between Middlebury and Ripton in Addison County, this 54-acre forest fire is now 100% contained. The fire burned on federal and private land in a mixed hardwood area and was fueled by dry surface conditions, moderate winds, and leaf litter on the forest floor. Strong collaboration between local fire departments, the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR), and the U.S. Forest Service—aided by recent rainfall—contributed to its successful suppression. Firefighters have been conducting interior mop-up operations to ensure all hotspots are completely extinguished.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: There are currently no state-issued burning restrictions or burn bans in place. The current wet weather pattern has temporarily halted most new prescribed burning operations. Earlier this season, successful prescribed burns were conducted, including a 53-acre burn at the Sandbar Wildlife Management Area in Milton to restore a rare Dry Pine-Oak-Heath Sandplain Forest.

Air Quality: With the current low fire activity and widespread rain, there are no significant smoke impacts or air quality alerts related to wildfires in Vermont at this time.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Unsettled and showery conditions are present across central and northern Vermont today, with temperatures in the mid-60s and high relative humidity levels around 84%.
Forecasted Weather: There are no fire weather concerns, Fire Weather Watches, or Red Flag Warnings in effect for Vermont over the next 72 hours. A wetting rain is likely to continue through the mid-week, with additional precipitation expected heading into the weekend. Humidity levels are expected to remain high, which will continue to aid in keeping fire danger levels at a "Green" (Low) rating across all Fire Danger Rating Areas in the state.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Even with low fire danger, residents are advised to remain cautious with any outdoor fires or campfires. Campfires should be in a contained ring with a water source close by to manage escaped embers. Always fully extinguish fires, carefully dispose of all smoking materials, and remember that a permit from your local Town Forest Fire Warden is always required prior to any open burning of brush or debris.
Resource Allocation: With local fire danger low, Vermont FPR Wildland Fire Specialists continue to focus on public education, equipment maintenance, and supporting local municipal fire departments to ensure readiness for when conditions eventually dry out.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation - Wildland Fire: fpr.vermont.gov/forest/wildland-fire
Vermont Town Forest Fire Warden Directory: fpr.vermont.gov/forest-fire-warden-directory

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.