As the 2026 wildfire season enters its final phase, the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) reported four large fires burning across the country as of November 6, with 342 firefighters and support personnel currently assigned to active incidents. The national preparedness level remains at 1 — the lowest on a scale of 1 to 5 — where it has been since October 14.

Current Fire Activity

NIFC's November 6 situation report identified large fires in the Eastern, Northwest, and Southern areas of the country. The Eastern Area is reporting elevated fire activity, with 40 new fires reported on that date alone. The Southern Area reported nine new fires. Despite the relatively low national preparedness posture, isolated fire activity continues in regions experiencing drought or dry fuels.

Among the notable active incidents nationally is the Wild River Fire in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, which at 856 acres has become the largest fire in that forest's history — a striking reminder that wildfire is no longer a problem confined to the West.

2026 Season Totals

Year-to-date through November 6, 2026:

  • 68,179 total fires — 131% of the 10-year average
  • 9,471,008 acres burned — 146% of the 10-year average for this date
  • National totals are considered close to final as the season winds down

The 2026 season is tracking as one of the most significant on record, driven in large part by catastrophic fire events in the Pacific Northwest, the Southwest, and the Northern Rockies during the summer months.

No States at Above-Normal Risk

The latest U.S. Wildfire Outlook for November 9–22 shows zero states in the Lower 48 at above-normal fire risk — down from six states at above-normal risk just two weeks ago. NIFC's November 2 seasonal outlook carries normal significant fire potential across the contiguous United States for November and December, with above-normal potential confined to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

However, fire analysts caution that the blank national risk map flattens real regional differences. Areas to watch include:

  • Northeast and New England: Moderate drought expanding across northern New Hampshire and Vermont; extreme drought appearing in northern Maine
  • Mid-South and Appalachians: The deepest drought in the country, with extreme-to-exceptional drought conditions in Mississippi, Virginia, and North Carolina
  • Texas Hill Country: Two summers of flooding grew a heavy grass crop that has since cured, creating elevated concern after the first hard freeze

Transitioning to Prescribed Fire Season

NIFC noted in its November 6 report that as fall brings cooler temperatures and favorable conditions in many regions, prescribed fire is an important tool for managing fuels and reducing the risk of future wildfires. Smoke may be visible in areas where prescribed burns are being conducted this fall. Residents are encouraged to check local agency updates for information on prescribed fire activity in their areas.

For the latest national fire statistics and situation reports, visit the National Interagency Fire Center at nifc.gov.