Virginia Fires

Daily Wildfire Report for Virginia - May 11, 2026

Overview

Virginia is currently experiencing a relatively low fire risk, aided by recent and forecasted rainfall across the region. The state's primary cause of wildfires continues to be escaped debris burning. The current National Preparedness Level is 2, indicating that national resources are managing the current level of wildland fire activity effectively.

Current Situation

Fire Activity: Over the last 72 hours, fire activity in Virginia has been minimal. Satellite data indicates that there have been a normal number of high-confidence fire alerts reported in the state so far in 2026. There are currently no significant large wildfires burning in Virginia that threaten communities or require national incident management support.

Key Fires: There are currently no significant large wildfires burning in Virginia. The primary fuels for typical fires in the state remain dry grasses, yard debris, leaf litter, and brush, which can dry quickly with sunshine and wind; however, current moisture levels are keeping risks low.

Prescribed Burns and Land Management: The Virginia Department of Forestry (DOF) and partner agencies continue to evaluate weather conditions to safely conduct prescribed burns where necessary to reduce hazardous fuel loads. While the statewide 4 PM burning law ended on April 30, individual counties may have intermittent burn laws or bans in place. For example, Loudoun County enacted an open burning ban that officially took effect on May 1, 2026.

Air Quality: Air quality remains good across most of the commonwealth. There are currently no major active wildfires producing significant smoke impacts in Virginia.

Weather and Wind Warnings

Current Weather: Conditions across central Virginia are currently mild, with temperatures in the upper 70s and relative humidity around 41%. A low-pressure system is bringing light rain to the region today, with high chances of precipitation.

Forecasted Weather: There are currently no Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches in effect for Virginia. Additional rain is forecasted for Wednesday, May 13. These incoming showers will help maintain high fuel moisture levels and keep the fire danger relatively low across the state over the next several days.

Recommendations

Public Awareness: Residents are advised to check local county regulations before conducting any outdoor burning, as local burn bans may still be in effect. Always ensure that fires are never left unattended and that proper extinguishing tools, such as a shovel, rake, and charged hose, are readily available.

Resource Allocation: Firefighters and forestry officials continue to monitor weather and drought conditions to maintain a state of readiness for quick response to any potential new wildfire starts.

Resources

For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC): www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn
Virginia Department of Forestry: dof.virginia.gov
Virginia Department of Emergency Management: www.vaemergency.gov

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.