The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) reported 22 large fires burning across 13 states as of May 15, 2026, with fire activity continuing to expand under a combination of warm temperatures, critically dry fuels, and gusty winds. The national preparedness level currently stands at 2 on a scale of 1 to 5, with nearly 2,000 personnel assigned to active incidents nationwide.

Year-to-Date: Well Above Average

Through May 15, the 2026 fire year has produced 26,568 fires burning more than 1.9 million acres — a significant increase over the same period in 2025 (25,619 fires, 1.08 million acres) and well above the ten-year average of approximately 18,893 fires and 1.09 million acres. Nationally, 118 new fires were reported on May 15 alone, with 16 large fires still uncontained.

Active Fires by State

Large fires are currently burning across a wide swath of the country:

  • Texas (8 fires) — The Hunggate Fire prompted evacuations and road closures as crews worked to slow fast-moving fire spread in dry grass fuels.
  • Florida (3 fires) — Crews continue making progress on ongoing fires as conditions begin to dry following recent precipitation.
  • Oklahoma (3 fires) — Active fire behavior continues across the Southern Plains.
  • New Mexico (2 fires) — The Seven Cabins Fire on the Lincoln National Forest is exhibiting wind-driven runs and significant spotting. The Six Mile Fire on the Cibola National Forest is being monitored with minimal smoke.
  • Nebraska (2 fires) — New large fires reported in grass and brush fuels.
  • Utah (1 fire) — The Wild Horse Fire continues to grow in grass and brush fuels in the Great Basin.
  • Wyoming (1 fire) — The Spread Creek Fire near Jackson is drawing firefighter resources in challenging mountain terrain.
  • California (1 fire) — The Neuralia Fire in the California Desert District is 98% contained at 1,196 acres.
  • Colorado (1 fire) — One large fire reported, with suppression efforts underway.

Weather Driving Elevated Conditions

NIFC's May 15 weather briefing highlighted multiple areas of concern. Breezy west winds of 20–30 mph with gusts to 45 mph are impacting Montana and Wyoming eastward into the Upper Great Lakes, with minimum relative humidity falling to 10–25%. In the southern High Plains, temperatures near 100°F combined with southwest winds of 15–25 mph and relative humidity of 5–15% are creating critical fire weather conditions across eastern New Mexico and the Texas Panhandle. The Great Basin continues to experience single-digit relative humidity, though lighter winds are providing some relief compared to earlier in the week.

In the Pacific Northwest, light showers in western Washington are offering a brief reprieve, though drier conditions are expected to return as the region moves into summer.

Wildfire Awareness Month

May is Wildfire Awareness Month, and NIFC is using the elevated national fire situation to reinforce prevention messaging. The agency notes that most wildfires — approximately 85% — are human-caused and preventable. Simple precautions such as avoiding parking vehicles on dry grass, ensuring trailer chains are secured, and following all local fire restrictions can significantly reduce wildfire ignition risk.

With conditions across the western United States forecast to remain dry and warm through the summer, fire managers are urging all outdoor recreationists and rural residents to stay informed, follow all posted restrictions, and report smoke immediately by calling 911.