The United States is on pace for one of its most active wildfire years in recent memory, with 25,560 fires burning more than 1.88 million acres nationwide through mid-May — well above the 10-year average of 1.05 million acres for the same period, according to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC).

As of Thursday, May 14, federal fire managers are tracking nine large active fires across four states, with the bulk of activity concentrated in Florida, where six large fires remain burning. The National Preparedness Level stands at 2 on a scale of 5, reflecting elevated but still manageable demands on national resources.

Where the Fires Are

Active large fires as of May 14 include:

  • South Canal Fire — Florida Forest Service, 2,200 acres, 93% contained, 12 miles south of Mayo, FL
  • Max Road 06 Fire — Florida Forest Service, 11,443 acres, 80% contained, 10 miles northwest of Miami, FL
  • Cow Creek Fire — Florida Forest Service, 2,364 acres, 75% contained, 10 miles south of Bronson, FL
  • Sargent Fire — National Forests in Florida (USFS), 2,523 acres, 90% contained, near Sargent, FL
  • Lochloosa West Fire — Florida Forest Service, 956 acres, 85% contained, near Gainesville, FL
  • 172 Ave Fire — Florida Forest Service, 315 acres, 65% contained, near Florida City, FL
  • East Side Fire — Custer Gallatin National Forest (USFS), 1,219 acres, 70% contained, south of Red Lodge, MT
  • Six Mile Fire — Cibola National Forest (USFS), 341 acres, 0% contained, 12 miles southeast of Magdalena, NM
  • AFM Hazen Fire — Arizona Department of Forestry, 1,191 acres, 87% contained, near Buckeye, AZ

Southern Area Leads Activity

NIFC reports that the Southern Area continues to experience the highest level of activity, with firefighters battling wind-driven runs and long-range spotting on several Florida incidents. The South Canal Fire has exhibited particularly active behavior, requiring extensive aerial and ground resources.

In the Southwest, the Hummingbird Fire on the Gila National Forest in New Mexico has seen some moderation in fire behavior following recent precipitation, though crews remain engaged.

New Fires Reported in Oregon and California

NIFC confirmed new large fires were reported in Oregon and Southern California this week, where dry fuels and gusty winds are creating challenging conditions. The Pine Mountain Fire near Bend, Oregon — a prescribed burn that escaped containment lines — has since been fully contained at approximately 2,589 acres.

A Concerning Trend

Compared to previous years, 2026 is tracking far above recent norms. Through mid-May 2025, only 1.02 million acres had burned nationally. The spike is raising alarm among fire managers heading into what is traditionally the most active fire season window — June through September.

May is Wildfire Awareness Month. NIFC reminds the public that nearly 85% of wildfires are human-caused and preventable. Checking trailer chains to prevent sparks, observing local fire restrictions, and fully extinguishing campfires are among the simple actions that can prevent ignitions.