Ecologist Michelle Mack Advocates For Forest-Based Solutions to Curb Wildfire Emissions

A Northern Arizona University ecologist discussed how targeted firefighting and planting fewer flammable trees could help slow a cycle of warming and worsening wildfires in North America’s boreal forest, as high northern latitudes warm three to four times faster than the rest of the planet.

Ecologist Michelle Mack Advocates For Forest-Based Solutions to Curb Wildfire Emissions

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Colonial Land Use Linked to Australia's Bushfire Crisis

A new study published in the journal Nature by researchers at the University of Melbourne revealed that forest expansion and thickening after British colonization has created landscapes more prone to bushfires, amplifying the influence of climate change and propelling Australia's bushfire crisis.

Colonial Land Use Linked to Australia's Bushfire Crisis

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Risk conditions not properly captured before Bell 412 firefighting helicopter’s uncommanded descent

Australian Transportation Safety Board officials announced their findings on a Bell 412EP helicopter crash on March 10, 2025, about 55 km north-east of Strahan, in western Tasmania, noting that the helicopter entered an uncommanded descent while filling its bucket from a river during firebombing operations at the Canning Peak fireground.

Risk conditions not properly captured before Bell 412 firefighting helicopter’s uncommanded descent

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In a year in which nearly 63,000 wildfires have burned more than 9 million acres nationwide, exceeding the 10-year averages for number of fires and acreage burned by 35% and 47%, respectively, the National Interagency Fire Center listed this year's ten worst wildfires.

These Are The 10 Largest Wildfires In 2026 So Far

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Why even resilient forests are struggling to regrow after wildfires

Researchers across the US are alarmed that forests which are historically adapted to wildfires are now often being obliterated by the fast-moving, high temperature blazes that are becoming increasingly more common with climate change.

Why even resilient forests are struggling to regrow after wildfires

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October heat wave to bring 100-degree temperatures, wildfire risk to Southern California

A large heat dome which has settled over most of Nevada and California will drive temperatures into triple digits across Southern California, peaking this weekend, and elevating the wildfire danger through next week.

October heat wave to bring 100-degree temperatures, wildfire risk to Southern California

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20 Years of Wildfire Smoke in the U.S.

Climate Central provided a deep dive into two decades-worth of smoke information across the U.S., where wildfire smoke exposure has surged in recent years, causing the average person to breathe in four times more PM2.5 smoke particles each year during 2020-2025 than during 2006–2019.

20 Years of Wildfire Smoke in the U.S.

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Senate Unanimously Passes Padilla Bill to Help Prevent Catastrophic Wildfires, Increase Use of Prescribed Fire

The U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senator Alex Padilla’s (D-Calif.) Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act (WEPA) of 2026, a bipartisan bill to make it easier for states and communities to use prescribed fire to reduce hazardous fuel and prevent catastrophic wildfires.

Senate Unanimously Passes Padilla Bill to Help Prevent Catastrophic Wildfires, Increase Use of Prescribed Fire

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A growing coalition wants Congress to think about wildfires as a national security challenge

The Managing Director for the Alliance for Wildfire Resilience discussed how supporters of the Fix Our Forests Act are urging Congress to include the measure in the annual defense authorization bill because wildfires can threaten military installations, disrupt training, strain critical infrastructure, and increase demands on the National Guard.

A growing coalition wants Congress to think about wildfires as a national security challenge

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Ending the roadless rule can help fight forest fires and improve wildlife access

As debate rages about rescinding the Roadless Rule, the John and Jean DeNault Senior Fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution weighed in on the issue, pointing out that doing so is not a threat to federally-administered wilderness, but rather a statement that society has had enough and that it's time to manage wilderness rather than letting it burn.

Ending the roadless rule can help fight forest fires and improve wildlife access

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The Alliance Of Forest Service Retired Fire Leaders Sends Letter To USDA And DOI To Advocate For A Unified National Wildfire Service.

The Alliance of Forest Service Retired Fire Leaders sent a letter to USDA Secretary Rollins, DOI Secretary Burgum, DHS Secretary Mullin, and OMB Director Vought, as well as the Congressional Chairs of subcommittees that oversee policy and appropriations for the wildfire agencies, calling for the centralizing and restructuring of the U.S. Forest Service fire management program.

The Alliance Of Forest Service Retired Fire Leaders Sends Letter To USDA And DOI To Advocate For A Unified National Wildfire Service.

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Wildfire Risk

Insurance companies are starting to write new policies in California again after years of holding back as wildfire risk climbed higher, but Consumer Watchdog released an estimate of new policy commitments, finding that just 12,189 have been written since January 2025, when the Insurance Commissioner’s sustainable insurance strategy went into effect.

Wildfire Risk

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National preparedness level drops to PL 2 as wildfire activity eases

National Interagency Fire Center officials announced that the national preparedness level dropped to PL 2 Tuesday morning due to a decrease in initial attack and significant wildland fire activity, as 9,701 firefighters and support personnel continued to battle 31 large fires nationwide.

National preparedness level drops to PL 2 as wildfire activity eases

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Senate Committee Advances Respirator Requirements for Federal Wildland Firefighters

Federal wildland firefighters could gain their first federal smoke-exposure limits and dedicated respiratory protection under provisions included in the Healthy Lungs for Heroes Act, which was advanced by the Senate Agriculture Committee as part of the 2026 Farm Bill.

Senate Committee Advances Respirator Requirements for Federal Wildland Firefighters

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2 killed in CA helicopter crash responding to wildfire in Yosemite: FAA

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that a Fly-Precision helicopter assisting in the firefighting response to the Dome Fire in Yosemite crashed in Mariposa on Sunday afternoon, killing the two people on board, prompting a National Transportation Safety Board investigation.

2 killed in CA helicopter crash responding to wildfire in Yosemite: FAA

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Western wildfires increasingly intersect critical water supply watersheds

A new study published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment which examined more than eight decades of wildfire activity found that fires are burning more land in watersheds in the West that supply water to millions of people than in years past.

Western wildfires increasingly intersect critical water supply watersheds

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The 2026 fire season is on pace to be biggest in a decade

National Interagency Fire Center officials announced that, as of this week, there have already been more wildfires across the U.S., burning more square miles, than at this same point during the last 10 years - a total of about 13,200 square miles having gone up in smoke so far this year.

The 2026 fire season is on pace to be biggest in a decade

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In the West: A Wildland Firefighter’s Perspective

A former Hotshot recalled the night California’s Cedar Fire breached containment, commenting on how the Fix Our Forests Act could speed up active forest management and work to reduce fuel loading around communities, while building fire resiliency into the landscape, to prevent more such blazes.

In the West: A Wildland Firefighter’s Perspective

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With or without roads, US forests burn at a similar rate, researchers claim

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Hunter Bassler, a Journalist at the IAWF's Wildfire Today, delved into the thorny topic of repeal of the Roadless Rule, citing an Oregon State University study in which over 40 years of wildfire data across 11 western U.S. states showed that national forest areas classified as “roadless” didn’t burn more than national forest land with roads.

With or without roads, US forests burn at a similar rate, researchers claim

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The U.S. Is Having One of Its Most Active Wildfire Seasons. Here’s How the Costs Are Adding Up

Time Magazine delved into the details of just how much wildfires which have burned more than 8.4 million acres this season have cost to suppress, racking up 70% of the $6 billion fiscal 2026 fire-suppression budget.

The U.S. Is Having One of Its Most Active Wildfire Seasons. Here’s How the Costs Are Adding Up

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“The System Is Broken.” Frustrations Inside The Forest Service Boil Over As Fire Supervisors Express Fundamental Concerns.

The Hotshot Wake Up podcast focused on the frustrations which have boiled over within the U.S. Forest Service, where fire supervisors are voicing concerns about agency direction, poor facilities, experienced firefighters leaving the ranks, and infighting with line officers.

“The System Is Broken.” Frustrations Inside The Forest Service Boil Over As Fire Supervisors Express Fundamental Concerns.

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National Fire News

The National Interagency Fire Center reported that 69 new wildfires ignited nationwide yesterday, including four new large fires, as 13,193 firefighters continued to battle 58 large fires in a year in which 53,940 fires have burned more than 8.4 million acres.

National Fire News

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Firefighter deaths afflict surviving colleagues, research finds

A sociologist and firefighter, who is an instructional associate in the CU Boulder Arts and Sciences Residential Academic Programs, conducted in-depth interviews with 37 firefighters across the American West, documenting trauma, grief, survivor guilt, anxiety, hypervigilance and, in some cases, suicidal thoughts among firefighters who experienced the deaths of colleagues.

Firefighter deaths afflict surviving colleagues, research finds

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Grist delved into the growing problem of wildfires straining firefighting resources, with many requests for help going unfulfilled, pointing to an August 11th memo from the National Multi-Agency Coordinating group, which handles logistics for firefighting across the federal government, warning that “resource availability remains critically low, with commitments approaching all-time peak levels.”

America is losing its war against wildfire

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Wildfires can be tracked by their distinctive rumble

In a new study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, researchers have shown that they can now map distant wildfires through the rumble they make, noting that even a low-intensity grassland fire “hums” loudly enough to be monitored just by sound.

Wildfires can be tracked by their distinctive rumble

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How AI is playing a growing role in wildfire response

At a time when artificial intelligence (AI) is making inroads into a variety of industries and applications, including helping detect and monitor wildfires, researchers are exploring how it could help fire officials decide where to deploy crews across multiple fires.

How AI is playing a growing role in wildfire response

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National Fire News

The National Interagency Fire Center reported that 68 new fires, including five new large fires, cropped up nationwide on Tuesday, as 20,245 firefighters and support personnel continued to battle 84 large fires, in a year in which 52,626 wildfires have burned more than 8.2 million acres across the United States.

National Fire News

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Microsoft Donates US$5m to Help Detect & Prevent Wildfires

Following a year in which nearly 78,000 wildfires blazed across the U.S., representing a 20% increase over 2024, Microsoft is investing in AI-powered wildfire detection, as hotter temperatures, prolonged drought and expanding development increase the wildfire risk to communities and ecosystems.

Microsoft Donates US$5m to Help Detect & Prevent Wildfires

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Aus in firing line of spring ‘double-whammy’

Following a sobering forecast by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council about the bushfire season ahead, Australians are being urged to get ready now for a hotter, drier and more dangerous spring.

Aus in firing line of spring ‘double-whammy’

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In the American West, wildfire comes for the suburbs

Following a recent study in the journal Nature Natural Hazards which found that the expansion of housing, in tandem with climate change, has quadrupled the risk of destructive wildfires in California, Grist tackles the topic of suburban wildfires which have ravaged neighborhoods in Reno, Nevada, and Spokane, Washington, this summer.

In the American West, wildfire comes for the suburbs

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Heat-fueled wildfires tear through U.S., consuming thousands of acres

Amid record heat, more than 90 wildfires are raging across the U.S., and Southern California is facing extreme heat later this week, which will cause the wildfire danger to spike, the excessive heat even affecting helicopters, which can only take off with half-loads and fly slower than usual so as not to tax their engines.

Heat-fueled wildfires tear through U.S., consuming thousands of acres

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Heat, drought continue fueling wildfire risk from Texas to California and Washington

Accuweather provided a grim outlook of unrelenting heat, record drought and gusty winds fueling new and existing wildfires, raising the danger of new blazes breaking out across the fire-battered West.

Heat, drought continue fueling wildfire risk from Texas to California and Washington

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National Fire News

The National Interagency Fire Center reported that 22,183 firefighters and support personnel are battling 224 new wildfires, including 13 new large fires, in a year which has seen 51,063 wildfires burn more than 7.8 million acres nationwide.

National Fire News

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Firefighters battle 79 large wildfires nationwide as 200 new fires are reported

The National Interagency Fire Council reported that 22,122 firefighters and support personnel battled 200 wildfires nationwide over the weekend, including five new large fires, noting that the Northwest had the most fire activity in the nation, with 29 large fires and 11 complex incident management teams assigned.

Firefighters battle 79 large wildfires nationwide as 200 new fires are reported

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Smoke transport in the Arctic and intense seasonal fires in Indonesia

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Mark Parrington, Senior Scientist at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts' Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service, discussed how wildfires in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere are creating smoky conditions north and south of the Equator this year.

Smoke transport in the Arctic and intense seasonal fires in Indonesia

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Map Shows Largest Active Wildfires in US Right Now

Newsweek provided a map of where wildfires are currently burning across the U.S., with massive blazes burning in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Utah and Kansas collectively accounting for millions of acres, with Oregon hosting four of the 10 largest fires currently burning.

Map Shows Largest Active Wildfires in US Right Now

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'Mayday, Mayday, Mayday': Report outlines moments before fatal crash at Utah wildfire

The National Transportation Safety Board on Tuesday released its initial report detailing the deadly crash near the Sevier-Millard county line, in Utah, of a Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane helping fight the Widemouth 2 Fire on August 7th, which killed both pilots.

'Mayday, Mayday, Mayday': Report outlines moments before fatal crash at Utah wildfire

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The Arctic boreal forests are burning: Here's why this matters to the world

The World Economic Forum delved into the worsening problem of wildfires breaking out in the boreal and Arctic regions, which became a major contributor of greenhouse gasses as 335 million hectares of land burned worldwide in 2025.

The Arctic boreal forests are burning: Here's why this matters to the world

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National Fire News

The National Interagency Fire Center reported that 92 new wildfires were burning nationwide on Sunday, including four new large fires, as 28,710 personnel struggled to contain 80 large fires, in a year in which 48,960 wildfires have burned more than 7.2 million acres so far.

National Fire News

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Federal Job Cuts Are Making Wildfires Harder to Fight

The New York Times delved into the details of how federal job cuts have impacted wildfire response in a year which is shaping up to be one for the record books, with over 48,000 wildfires burning more than 6.5 million acres across the U.S. by mid-August.

Federal Job Cuts Are Making Wildfires Harder to Fight

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In record US wildfire season, firefighter entrapments hit 20-year high

The Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center reported that U.S. firefighting personnel are being overrun by wildfires at the highest rate in two decades, leading to six deaths and dozens of injuries in 12 entrapments this year.

In record US wildfire season, firefighter entrapments hit 20-year high

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Feds visit Boise as new wildfire strategy takes shape

With the National Interagency Fire Center reporting that over 30,000 personnel are fighting more than 100 large wildfires nationwide, they raised the National Preparedness Level to 5, its highest setting, even as the secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior highlighted changes they say will improve the federal response to wildfires.

Feds visit Boise as new wildfire strategy takes shape

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High temps and drought fuel dozens of fires across the West, including near Reno, Nevada

Boise State Public Radio provided an interactive map which shows where scores of wildfires are burning across the western United States, including more than a dozen that are over 100,000 acres in size, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

High temps and drought fuel dozens of fires across the West, including near Reno, Nevada

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As new blazes emerge, crews battle nearly 200 wildfires across US

More than 20,000 people in southwest Canada and the western United States have fled their homes as more than 183 wildfires, including eight new large ones that were fueled by hot, dry weather, blaze across approximately 3 million acres.

As new blazes emerge, crews battle nearly 200 wildfires across US

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When tragedy strikes, America's wildland firefighters ask, was it 'somebody that we loved?'

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Brian Fennessy, Director of the US Wildland Fire Service, discussed a report on the deaths of three wildland firefighters from the Rifle Interagency Helitack Crew in late June which sheds light on the extreme and dangerous conditions they faced, and the impact on the tight-knit wildland firefighter community.

When tragedy strikes, America's wildland firefighters ask, was it 'somebody that we loved?'

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Aerial firefighting operations provide key support during Spokane Area Fires

A video news segment covered the action as aerial firefighters grappled with Spokane wildfires, AeroFlite and Coulson Aviation personnel discussing the fact that this has been an all-hands event, with all eight of AeroFlite's Spokane, Washington-based aircraft in the air at the moment.

Aerial firefighting operations provide key support during Spokane Area Fires

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The Forest Service Announces Wildland Firefighter Unification Feasibility Study Awardee. Study Results Are Expected In February Of 2027.

U.S. Forest Service has announced that the Research Triangle Institute will explore the feasibility of the incorporation of U.S. Forest Service wildland firefighters into the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, under the Department of the Interior.

The Forest Service Announces Wildland Firefighter Unification Feasibility Study Awardee. Study Results Are Expected In February Of 2027.

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Forest Service air tanker base plays key role during Montana fire season

As wildfire season intensifies across the West, Montana's Helena U.S. Forest Service Air Tanker Base, which accommodates everything from single-engine air-tankers (SEATS) and helicopters with buckets to very large air-tankers, better known as VLATs, like the DC-10, is playing a critical role in getting firefighting aircraft turned around quickly.

Forest Service air tanker base plays key role during Montana fire season

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U.S. wildfire season exceeds 10-year average

As nearly 100 major wildfires continue to burn across the U.S., blazes in Washington and Oregon have forced evacuations, caused power outages, and burned hundreds of thousands of acres in the Pacific Northwest alone.

U.S. wildfire season exceeds 10-year average

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Municipal fire departments take on growing role in wildfire response

As wildfires continue to burn across the U.S. and Canada, the International Association of Fire Fighters discussed how their training is preparing municipal fire departments to assist wildland crews and equipment who are stretched thin.

Municipal fire departments take on growing role in wildfire response

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France, Spain and Greece battle wildfires as Europe swelters

Firefighters in France, Spain and Greece are battling major wildfires, with Spain bringing the blaze on the border between Madrid and ‌Castilla y Leon under control, but facing new threats as intense heat, dry vegetation and powerful winds kept much of southern Europe on high alert.

France, Spain and Greece battle wildfires as Europe swelters

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Wildfires are more extreme in Europe and North America, but global burning is oddly decreasing

Despite headlines about wildfires raging in various parts of the world, particularly in Europe and North America, key worldwide burning statistics are at a record low, largely because Africa and Asia are controlling fires more.

Wildfires are more extreme in Europe and North America, but global burning is oddly decreasing

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‘We’re losing our ability to manage forest fires’ as West becomes hotter and drier, researcher says

A professor of geography at Clark University in Massachusetts whose research focuses on climate and mountain ecosystems warned that methods which have traditionally been used to deal with wildfires may no longer be effective in the age of megafires, something debated by fellow wildfire experts in this article.

‘We’re losing our ability to manage forest fires’ as West becomes hotter and drier, researcher says

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More than 320,000 people have been forced to flee their homes across France and Spain as a series of wildfires continues to wreak havoc across parts of southern Europe, with blazes in France burning around 42,000 hectares, and those in Spain burning more than 77,000 hectares across the Madrid area and the provinces of Ávila and Toledo.

Hundreds of thousands evacuated in France and Spain as wildfires rage on

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National Guard supports wildfire suppression efforts from the Midwest to West Coast

National Guard units from Wyoming, California, Colorado, Minnesota, Nebraska and Washington are supporting wildfire suppression operations in multiple states, providing aerial firefighting aircraft, helicopters and ground personnel to assist civil authorities as wildfire activity continues across the western U.S.

National Guard supports wildfire suppression efforts from the Midwest to West Coast

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Nearly 80 active wildfires reported in Oregon impacting 670K+ acres: What we know

As of noon on Wednesday, there were 76 major wildfires burning across Oregon, where at least 674,874 acres have gone up in smoke, with the highest concentration of blazes in the central northern part of the state.

Nearly 80 active wildfires reported in Oregon impacting 670K+ acres: What we know

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As major wildfires burn in Colorado and across the country, federal firefighting resources are being stretched thin

The National Interagency Fire Center reported that “national resources are heavily committed,” as dozens of major wildfires burn across the U.S., warning that areas with active wildfires “must take emergency measures to sustain incident operations.”

As major wildfires burn in Colorado and across the country, federal firefighting resources are being stretched thin

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Inside the race to spot wildfires before they spiral out of control

Scientific American Magazine provided an overview of how technology is being harnessed to give firefighters advantages in spotting wildfires, looking back at how far we've come from the Big Burn of 1910, a 3 million-acre inferno that destroyed several towns across northern Idaho, western Montana and parts of British Columbia, claiming nearly 90 lives.

Inside the race to spot wildfires before they spiral out of control

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'A different animal this year': Ontario fire chief warns of dangerous conditions as wildfires spread across the western United States

In a year which has already seen more than 40,000 wildfires burn approximately 3.8 million acres across the U.S., the National Interagency Fire Center has raised the national preparedness level to five, the highest level possible, indicating firefighting resources are heavily committed across the country, where over 19,000 firefighters battle 78 major wildfires.

'A different animal this year': Ontario fire chief warns of dangerous conditions as wildfires spread across the western United States

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Texas A&M Forest Service announces first purchase of dedicated wildland firefighting aircraft

Texas A&M Forest Service is building a state-managed fleet of wildland firefighting aircraft, beginning with the purchase of two SUBARU Bell 412EPX helicopters, the first of which is expected to be delivered in December 2027, with the second anticipated to follow three to six months later.

Texas A&M Forest Service announces first purchase of dedicated wildland firefighting aircraft

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Dangerous wildfire smoke continues with air quality alerts in at least 17 states

Air quality alerts are in place across at least 17 states, from Minnesota to New Hampshire and as far south as Virginia, due to dangerous smoke from more than 180 wildfires burning in Canada and at least another nine that are burning in northern Minnesota.

Dangerous wildfire smoke continues with air quality alerts in at least 17 states

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Wildfires expose millions in Midwest, Northeast to dangerous smoke: "Perfect storm for really dry conditions"

Heavy smoke from several large wildfires blazing in Canada and Minnesota is expected to engulf large swaths of the Midwest and Northeast U.S. this week, exposing millions of people to dangerous air pollution.

Wildfires expose millions in Midwest, Northeast to dangerous smoke: "Perfect storm for really dry conditions"

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Busy wildfire season tests US fire bosses as they juggle resources to stay ahead

During a wildfire season that has already claimed the lives of four firefighting personnel, fire managers are trying to anticipate nature’s next move, placing thousands of firefighters, hundreds of engines, batteries of bulldozers, and fleets of helicopters and air-tankers where they’ll make the biggest difference.

Busy wildfire season tests US fire bosses as they juggle resources to stay ahead

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Firefighting pilot at Gold Mountain Fire dies after aircraft crashes into Gunnison County reservoir

Gunnison County Sheriff's Office reported that the Gunnison Regional Communications Center received a report on Sunday that a KMAX helicopter helping fight the Gold Mountain Fire had gone down in the Silver Jack Reservoir, in the southwest part of that Colorado county, with the Montrose County Sheriff's Office Dive Team recovering the body of the pilot from the aircraft shortly thereafter.

Firefighting pilot at Gold Mountain Fire dies after aircraft crashes into Gunnison County reservoir

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With Wildfires Already Surging, Communities Need Cross-Boundary Solutions

The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions highlighted the need for federal action that supports a cross-boundary approach to land management, which would bring private, local, state, Tribal, and federal partners together to improve forest health, reduce wildfire risk, protect critical infrastructure, and safeguard public health.

With Wildfires Already Surging, Communities Need Cross-Boundary Solutions

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Hundreds of thousands of acres burn as fires spread in West

Fires across the southwestern U.S. have picked up early this year, with over 400,000 acres burning between Utah and Colorado alone, as 546,000 acres were on fire nationwide - 146% of the average year-to-date acreage burn during the last 10 years, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Hundreds of thousands of acres burn as fires spread in West

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Air Attack Issue #46

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Ned Dawson, Publisher of Air Attack Magazine, sent along issue #46, noting that anyone who wants to receive future issues of Air Attack Magazine directly can sign up on the VIP list.

Air Attack Issue #46

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5 things you might not know about wildland firefighting

The senior editor at Inside Climate News and author of “Megafire: The Race to Extinguish a Deadly Epidemic of Flame,” highlighted five important topics in regards to wildland firefighting about which the general public is typically unaware.

5 things you might not know about wildland firefighting

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Wildfires rage in Portugal, Greece and Spain while Greek authorities warn of toxic smoke

Wildfires which have scorched more than 20,000 hectares across Portugal, Spain, France, Greece and other European nations have forced mass evacuations and threatened the Tour de France bicycle race, while Greeks living in Thessaloniki were warned to remain indoors and shut their windows and doors due to toxic smoke from a burning recycling plant that was engulfed by a wildfire.

Wildfires rage in Portugal, Greece and Spain while Greek authorities warn of toxic smoke

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NWA June Newsletter

The National Wildfire Alliance sent along their latest newsletter.

NWA July Newsletter

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Tracking US wildfires in maps and charts

As 121 wildfires continued to burn across the U.S., in a year in which wildland blazes have scorched over 2.9 million acres nationwide so far, CNN provided an interactive map and charts detailing the largest blazes currently burning, along with their effects on air quality.

Tracking US wildfires in maps and charts

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Firefighters battle wildfires in the West

ABC News provided an overview of 40 major wildfires which are currently burning across nine western states, where Colorado's 46 sq mile Cottonwood Fire has earned the dubious distinction of being the largest wildfire in the U.S.

Firefighters battle wildfires in the West

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Identities Released of Three Firefighters Who Died Responding to Knowles Fire in Colorado

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Brian Fennessy, Director of the US Wildland Fire Service, lamented the loss of three wildland firefighters representing USFS and the U.S. Wildland Fire Service as members of the Rifle Helitack crew, who were killed during initial attack operations on the Knowles Fire in Mesa County, Colorado, on Saturday.

Identities Released of Three Firefighters Who Died Responding to Knowles Fire in Colorado

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The American Smokejumper: ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of Wildland Fire

Amid the untimely dismantling of the U.S. Forest Service, which to date has been the agency responsible for providing two-thirds of the personnel needed to fight wildfires, smokejumpers, the “Swiss army knife” of the fire world, are profiled.

The American Smokejumper: ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of Wildland Fire

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US Forest Service adds N95 masks for wildland firefighters

For the first time, the U.S. Forest Service and the Department of the Interior are allowing wildland firefighters to use N95 masks for respiratory protection, while also adding daily showers and gear cleaning to cut down on the ill effects of toxic smoke and ash.

US Forest Service adds N95 masks for wildland firefighters

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Fire crews battle over 20 wildfires spanning 84K of acres in Utah, Nevada, Idaho

Around 2,000 homes are at risk as more than 2,100 firefighters battle almost two dozen major wildfires across Utah, Nevada, and Idaho, flooding the states of Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico and Kansas with wildfire smoke.

Fire crews battle over 20 wildfires spanning 84K of acres in Utah, Nevada, Idaho

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Federal wildland firefighters report increased burnout, low morale

As the summer wildfire season gets underway, federal wildland firefighters are facing an increasingly difficult situation on the job, prompting about three out of four respondents to a recent survey of federal wildland firefighters to consider quitting within the past 12 months.

Federal wildland firefighters report increased burnout, low morale

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Heat, wind and drought conditions spark wildfires in US West

Extreme heat and dry, windy conditions fueled several wildfires across the West over the weekend, including the 34 sq mile Iron Fire in Utah’s Juab County, which forced the evacuation of the small town of Eureka southwest of Salt Lake City.

Heat, wind and drought conditions spark wildfires in US West

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Prediction and prevention: Robotic applications for wildfire management

As wildfires increase in both intensity and frequency, new technologies such as robotics, in the form of drones, fixed sensors and artificial intelligence models that detect ignitions early, can aid management efforts.

Prediction and prevention: Robotic applications for wildfire management

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National Fire News

National Interagency Fire Center officials reported that 74 new wildfires broke out on Wednesday, prompting them to increase the Preparedness Level to 3 (out of 5), in a year in which 33,349 wildfires have already burned more than 2.6 million acres nationwide.

National Fire News

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Why only a few wildfires become extreme

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Janice Coen, a Project Scientist III at the National Center for Atmospheric Research's Mesoscale & Microscale Meteorology, published a study in the journal Fire which showed that extreme wildfires depend on three things lining up: conditions that make vegetation ready to burn, a short-lived weather pattern that can support rapid fire spread, and an ignition in the right place at the wrong time.

Why only a few wildfires become extreme

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Arson Expert: Palisades Fire was continuation of Lachman Blaze

A senior fire analyst refuted defense arguments at the federal arson trial regarding the deadly Palisades Fire in January 2025 that the Lachman and Palisades fires were two separate events, noting that the remains of the Lachman Fire smoldered underground for six days until it rekindled as the Palisades Fire.

Arson Expert: Palisades Fire was continuation of Lachman Blaze

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Wildland firefighter health should be treated as fire infrastructure, urges emerging research focus

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Hunter Bassler, a Journalist at the IAWF's Wildfire Today, highlighted an editorial in the International Journal of Wildland Fire which addressed how the physiological and psychological stress that wildfire personnel are put under every fire season has quickly moved from the margins of fire research to the mainstream.

Wildland firefighter health should be treated as fire infrastructure, urges emerging research focus

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CAL FIRE Continues to Support Innovative Science Addressing Wildfire & Forest Health Challenges with New Forest Health Research Grant Funding

CAL FIRE announced the availability of $4.5 million in California Climate Investments funding and $3 million in Proposition 4 California Climate Bond funding through the Forest Health Research Grants Program for research proposals that advance scientific understanding and develop practical solutions to the urgent forest health and wildfire challenges facing landscapes and communities.

CAL FIRE Continues to Support Innovative Science Addressing Wildfire & Forest Health Challenges with New Forest Health Research Grant Funding

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Light firefighting plane lands on its nose, pilot unhurt

A Hellenic Air Force PZL Mielec M-18 Single-Engine Air-Tanker did a face plant on landing on the eastern Aegean Sea island of Lesvos, Greece, earlier today after the brakes failed to work properly during landing.

Light firefighting plane lands on its nose, pilot unhurt

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CAL FIRE's new fire hawk and c-130 air tanker put to the test on Sorrento Fire

Just weeks after CAL FIRE showcased its newest firefighting aircraft during training exercises, both were called into action Monday as crews battled the 90-acre Sorrento Fire in San Diego County's Sorrento Valley.

CAL FIRE's new fire hawk and c-130 air tanker put to the test on Sorrento Fire

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SDG&E, Qualcomm and UC San Diego Launch Edge AI Collaboration to Advance Wildfire and Extreme-Weather Response

San Diego Gas & Electric, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and the University of California San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography announced Edge Alert Sentinel, a new collaboration that will bring artificial intelligence directly to the front lines of wildfire and extreme-weather response.

SDG&E, Qualcomm and UC San Diego Launch Edge AI Collaboration to Advance Wildfire and Extreme-Weather Response

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Federal lab cuts could hamper fire forecasting efforts

Potential further cuts to federal science programs are threatening weather forecasts crucial to predicting wildfire behavior, of concern following an exceptionally dry winter which saw an anemic amount of snowfall across much of the Mountain West.

Federal lab cuts could hamper fire forecasting efforts

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The Most Comprehensive Wildfire Budget Ever: Fully Funds USWFS, Improves Employee Housing, Expands Hazard Pay, Multi-Year Aviation Contracts, Tech, Post Fire, And Tons More.

The House Committee on Appropriations funding report, which was just released on Thursday, contains many wildfire-related priorities, and underscores the importance of the U.S. Wildland Fire Service across multiple sections.

The Most Comprehensive Wildfire Budget Ever: Fully Funds USWFS, Improves Employee Housing, Expands Hazard Pay, Multi-Year Aviation Contracts, Tech, Post Fire, And Tons More.

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New 2,800-Gallon Helicopter Will Help Fight Wildfires Near Mammoth

The wildfire suppression toolkit just got bigger in California's Eastern Sierra with the stationing of a CH-47D Chinook helicopter at Mammoth Yosemite Airport, just outside the ski resort town of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Yosemite Airport.

New 2,800-Gallon Helicopter Will Help Fight Wildfires Near Mammoth

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Climate change and aerial firefighting technology

AirMed&Rescue provided an overview of the aerial firefighting industry worldwide as climate change lengthens wildfire seasons across hemispheres and increases outbreak frequency and fire size, exploring what new technologies are being developed to address this growing threat.

Climate change and aerial firefighting technology

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Getting ahead of wildfires: becoming proactive as opposed to reactive

AirMed&Rescue surveyed air-tanker operators to find out more about how they are trying to become proactive rather than reactive in their wildfire preparations in a year which looks to be a busy one for wildfires in the U.S and beyond.

Getting ahead of wildfires: becoming proactive as opposed to reactive

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NWA June Newsletter

The National Wildfire Alliance sent along their latest newsletter.

NWA June Newsletter

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The State of Our Nation’s Federal Forests and Outlook for the 2026 Wildfire Year

The Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands will hold an oversight hearing titled “The State of Our Nation’s Federal Forests and Outlook for the 2026 Wildfire Year” on Wednesday, June 3rd at 10:15 AM, in Room 1324 at the Longworth House Office Building, in Washington, DC.

The State of Our Nation’s Federal Forests and Outlook for the 2026 Wildfire Year

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Map Shows US Areas Most at Risk of Wildfire This Summer

The National Interagency Fire Center’s seasonal outlook map shows that large swaths of the United States facing heightened wildfire risk this summer, with dry conditions and rising temperatures setting the stage for another dangerous season across multiple regions.

Map Shows US Areas Most at Risk of Wildfire This Summer

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New analysis finds U.S. Forest Service treated 35% fewer acres for wildfire risk in 2025

A new analysis by the Center for Western Priorities finds that the U.S. Forest Service treated roughly 35% fewer acres of hazardous fuels in 2025 than in 2024, a sharp decline that leaves communities across the West and Southeast more exposed to the risk of catastrophic wildfires.

New analysis finds U.S. Forest Service treated 35% fewer acres for wildfire risk in 2025

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The A-10 Warthog Firefighting Aircraft that never was

A retrospective takes a look back to 2014, when the USA Firefighting Air Corps (USAFAC) made a presentation to the Colorado legislature’s Wildfire Matters Review Committee urging them to acquire military surplus A-10s and then, through a public-private partnership, convert and operate them as wildland firefighting air-tankers.

The A-10 Warthog Firefighting Aircraft that never was

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The satellite that has been tracking Earth's wildfires for 24 years is running out of fuel to dodge debris — and when it finally can't, the climate record it spent two decades building goes with it

NASA's Aqua satellite is in trouble, with NASA's Land Data Products Evaluations Assessment showing multiple occasions on which errors occurred in the satellite’s fire-tracking dataset due to it having to maneuver to avoid a collision with incoming space debris, something which diminishing fuel may make impossible in the near future.

The satellite that has been tracking Earth's wildfires for 24 years is running out of fuel to dodge debris — and when it finally can't, the climate record it spent two decades building goes with it

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The Firestorm after the Flames

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Jim Petersen, Founder and President of the Evergreen Foundation, sent along the latest issue of Evergreen Magazine, in which Wildfire NOTD subscriber Frank Carroll, Partner at Wildfire Pros PFMc, disputes one of the most protected assumptions in today’s federal wildfire policy: that allowing some wildfires to burn under the banner of “managed fire” is a sound restoration strategy.

The Firestorm after the Flames

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Fox News provided video with a bird's-eye view of Ventura County's Sandy Fire from above, shot through the windshield of a firefighting helicopter flying over Southern California neighborhoods choked by smoke from the massive blaze.

Watch: Firefighters take to the sky to save homes from Sandy Fire in Southern California

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Wildfires Burning Across Southern Plains and Southwest Seen in Satellite View

Satellite imagery captured multiple wildfires burning across New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, and Oklahoma on May 17th, including the Sharpe Fire, which had burned more than 28,000 acres in Oklahoma and Colorado, the 14,000-acre Hungate Fire in the Texas Panhandle, and several active blazes in New Mexico.

Wildfires Burning Across Southern Plains and Southwest Seen in Satellite View

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Wildfire risk to focus across the Southwest, Plains

AccuWeather meteorologists warned that a storm moving through the Rockies will lead to an increased risk of wildfires starting and rapidly spreading across portions of the Southwest and Plains early this week.

Wildfire risk to focus across the Southwest, Plains

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Multiple wildfires burning in TX & OK panhandles, eastern NM

Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico are being pummeled by a series of wildfires which have forced evacuations, including the 14,000-acre Hunggate Fire in Randall County, which has been brought to 30% containment.

Multiple wildfires burning in TX & OK panhandles, eastern NM

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Wildfire NOTD subscriber Tom Schultz, Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, discussed recovery efforts across national forests and grasslands which continue to progress following damage caused over three years by natural disasters, including wildfires, which are made possible by $6.35 billion in disaster recovery supplemental funding allocated to the agency through the American Relief Act of 2025.

USDA Forest Service Pushes Forward On Landmark Disaster Recovery

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Worst Start to Wildfire Season Raises Alarm as El Niño Threatens

Record-breaking heat and drought have fueled the world’s worst-ever start to a wildfire year, with more than 150 million hectares burned worldwide, according to satellite estimates from the Global Wildfire Information System - an area nearly the size of Alaska and roughly double the seasonal average for this period.

Worst Start to Wildfire Season Raises Alarm as El Niño Threatens

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VIDEO: Cal Fire air tanker paints CHP motor officer and bike bright red in Templeton

A California Highway Patrol motorcycle got an unexpected paint job when a CAL FIRE S-2T air-tanker dropped retardant on a wildfire burning near the San Luis Obispo County community of Templeton over the weekend.

VIDEO: Cal Fire air tanker paints CHP motor officer and bike bright red in Templeton

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'We're dry:' The new U.S. Wildland Fire Service prepares for extreme fire season

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Brian Fennessy, Director of the US Wildland Fire Service, warned that it's extremely dry across the U.S. and that the agency is facing one of the most severe fire seasons in recent history.

'We're dry:' The new U.S. Wildland Fire Service prepares for extreme fire season

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Every dollar spent on forest fuel treatments saves $3.75 in wildfire damages, study finds

A new study published in the journal Science by researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that every dollar spent on forest fuel treatments across the western U.S. saves about $3.75 in wildfire damage.

Every dollar spent on forest fuel treatments saves $3.75 in wildfire damages, study finds

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Over Five Years of Aerial Firefighting

The principal manager of Business Resiliency at Southern California Edison discussed the power utility's continued support for the Quick Reaction Force, a helitanker partnership which gives Southern California counties significant wildfire-fighting assets, including three Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopters and a S-76 intelligence aircraft.

Over Five Years of Aerial Firefighting

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The West heads for wildfires unprepared

As the West heads into what is projected to be a dangerous wildfire season following a dry winter and historically low snowpack, an Op-Ed piece sounded the alarm about the sharp decline in the number of Incident Management Teams expected to ride herd on wildland blazes.

The West heads for wildfires unprepared

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Destructive wildfire types targeted under new US ‘BRUSH Fire Act’

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Hunter Bassler, a Journalist at the IAWF's Wildfire Today, reported that the "Building Resiliency and Understanding of Shrublands to Halt Fires Act," or BRUSH Fires Act, which is aimed at improving officials’ understanding of wildfires in ecosystems dominated by small plants, recently cleared its first hurdle in Congress.

Destructive wildfire types targeted under new US ‘BRUSH Fire Act’

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NWA May Newsletter

The National Wildfire Alliance sent along their latest newsletter.

NWA May Newsletter

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Western U.S. wildfires have gotten less frequent, though larger

A new study published in the journal Earth’s Future shows that, although the number of wildfires burning in the Western United States each year has dropped roughly 28% over the past three decades, the annual burned area and damage from wildfires have soared.

Western U.S. wildfires have gotten less frequent, though larger

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Secretary of Agriculture Issues 2026 Wildfire Readiness Memorandum Ahead of Active Fire Season

The Secretary of Agriculture issued a new Secretarial Memorandum and letter directing the U.S. Forest Service to heighten national wildfire readiness, accelerate community-focused risk reduction, and strengthen firefighter health and safety for the 2026 fire year.

Secretary of Agriculture Issues 2026 Wildfire Readiness Memorandum Ahead of Active Fire Season

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Brian Fennessy discusses leading the next chapter

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Brian Fennessy, Director of the US Wildland Fire Service, discussed how he will lead the implementation of creating a single cohesive wildland fire organization within the Department of the Interior.

Brian Fennessy discusses leading the next chapter

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Wildfires are torching state budgets

With 9 of the 10 most expensive wildfires in U.S. history occurring since 2017 following a century of fire suppression that has led to more flammable vegetation on the landscape, coupled with warming temperatures due to climate change, state government officials across the West are seeing budgets hammered by wildfire costs.

Wildfires are torching state budgets

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CSKT Division of Fire details aerial firefighting resources, procedures

Montana's Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Division of Fire detailed how their aerial firefighting program works when it's time for them to answer the call, discussing some of the hazards pilots face, from mechanical problems to windy conditions that may keep them grounded when they'd rather be fighting fires.

CSKT Division of Fire details aerial firefighting resources, procedures

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More than 15 million under fire weather alerts in central U.S., as warmth, strong winds fuel "extreme" wildfire risks

The National Weather Service warned that more than 15 million people across the central United States are under fire weather alerts through tonight, as a combination of heat, dry air and strong winds risk "extreme" wildfire behavior.

More than 15 million under fire weather alerts in central U.S., as warmth, strong winds fuel "extreme" wildfire risks

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Wildfires across Georgia and Florida destroy more than 50 homes and force evacuations

Huge plumes of smoke blanketed swaths of the Southeast on Wednesday as crews battled rapidly-growing wildfires that destroyed more than 50 homes in Georgia and forced hundreds to flee the drought- and wind-fueled flames, while Florida firefighters battled more than 130 blazes burning on 39 square miles.

Wildfires across Georgia and Florida destroy more than 50 homes and force evacuations

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Arizona pilots explain how reckless drones can ground wildfire air crews

An air-tanker pilot with Western Pilot Service, who has fought fires from the air for over a decade, complained about the interference caused by hobby drones as aircraft helped firefighters battling the Shaw Fire near Buckeye, Arizona, that forced evacuations and destroyed two buildings on Monday.

Arizona pilots explain how reckless drones can ground wildfire air crews

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CA Prepares for Early Wildfire Season Amidst Slashing of US Forest Service

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Craig Clements, Associate Professor at San Jose State University and Director of their Wildfire Interdisciplinary Research Center, joined a panel of experts in a discussion of the current wildfire situation in California, where a shortage of U.S. Forest Service personnel, coupled with a March heatwave, could spell peril for the Golden State.

CA Prepares for Early Wildfire Season Amidst Slashing of US Forest Service

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Wildfires used to ‘go to sleep’ at night. Climate change has them burning overtime

A new study published in the journal Science Advances shows that burning time for North American wildfires is going into overtime, with flames burning fiercely later into the night and starting earlier in the morning because climate change is extending the hotter and drier conditions that fuel fires.

Wildfires used to ‘go to sleep’ at night. Climate change has them burning overtime

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Wildland firefighters on track for 25% hazard pay boost for prescribed burns

Federal wildland firefighters may soon earn higher “hazard pay” rates for more of their work, according to a new proposal from the Office of Personnel Management, boosting the amount by 25% for any work that they do to manage and control prescribed burns.

Wildland firefighters on track for 25% hazard pay boost for prescribed burns

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NWA April Newsletter

The National Wildfire Alliance sent along their latest newsletter.

NWA April Newsletter

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Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden warns of catastrophic wildfire season due to funding cuts and low snowpack

Oregon U.S. Senator Ron Wyden criticized President Donald Trump on the Senate floor, citing a lack of preparedness for the upcoming wildfire season, warning that federal funding cuts to the U.S. Forest Service and other firefighting agencies, combined with historic low snowpack, could lead to a catastrophic wildfire season in the West.

Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden warns of catastrophic wildfire season due to funding cuts and low snowpack

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Texas A&M Forest Service enhances wildland fire dispatch center

Texas A&M Forest Service held an open house at its wildland fire dispatch center in College Station on April 8th and used the occasion to recognize wildland fire dispatchers and highlight enhancements at the center that will strengthen statewide emergency response.

Texas A&M Forest Service enhances wildland fire dispatch center

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Is the US Forest Service’s reorganization a ‘dismantling’ or a needed shift? Experts weigh in on wildland fire’s impact

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Tom Lasser, a retired Lt Colonel and CH-47 pilot in the California National Guard, sent along an article in which Wildfire NOTD subscriber Hunter Bassler, a Journalist at the IAWF's Wildfire Today, examined the furor over reorganizing the U.S. Forest Service.

Is the US Forest Service’s reorganization a ‘dismantling’ or a needed shift? Experts weigh in on wildland fire’s impact

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Firefighting Aircraft Market Revenue to Attain USD 9.80 Bn by 2035

A new report titled "Firefighting Aircraft Market Revenue and Trends 2026 to 2035" shows that global firefighting aircraft market revenue was valued at $4.8 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach around $9.8 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 7.40% during forecast period.

Firefighting Aircraft Market Revenue to Attain USD 9.80 Bn by 2035

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The smell of danger – understanding wildfire smoke exposure

In a Wildfire Today article, a researcher at the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Brisbane, Queensland, discussed how scientists are trying to develop rapid, accessible tests that can protect firefighters, military personnel, and the wider community from the escalating health burden of wildfire smoke and polluted air.

The smell of danger – understanding wildfire smoke exposure

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Padilla, Sheehy Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Better Protect and Compensate Federal Firefighters

U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate Wildfire Caucus, announced the Support Our Firefighters Act, which aims to provide federal wildland firefighters with mandatory rest and recuperation time and ensure they are paid for their work.

Padilla, Sheehy Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Better Protect and Compensate Federal Firefighters

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Climate Change Is a Significant Driver of More Dangerous Wildfire Seasons

The Union of Concerned Scientists provided an in-depth investigation into the factors which have led to such an early start to wildfire season in parts of the U.S. typically not prone to such events, placing the blame firmly on climate change.

Climate Change Is a Significant Driver of More Dangerous Wildfire Seasons

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Wildfires an increasing threat for species during climate change

In a new study published in the journal Nature Climate Change, researchers at Sweden's University of Gothenburg showed that wildfires pose an ever-increasing threat to biodiversity, with nearly 84% of species vulnerable to wildfires facing a higher risk by the end of this century.

Wildfires an increasing threat for species during climate change

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Forest Fires in Europe, Middle East and North Africa, 2025

Copernicus announced that a new study, Forest Fires in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa 2025 Advanced Report, produced by the Joint Research Centre and based on data from the European Forest Fire Information System, indicates that in 2025, wildfires blackened a total of 2,242,195 hectares - a 20% increase compared to 2024 and approximately 2.5 times higher than 2023.

Forest Fires in Europe, Middle East and North Africa, 2025

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These maps show exactly where the West might burn this summer

A new report released Wednesday by the National Interagency Coordination Center warned that every state in the West is expected to face an above-normal threat of wildfires this summer due to an ongoing snow drought, rapid snowmelt, and a recent unprecedented March heat wave.

These maps show exactly where the West might burn this summer

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Trump administration to relocate U.S. Forest Service headquarters to Utah

President Donald Trump’s administration will move the U.S. Forest Service headquarters out of the nation’s capital to Salt Lake City, Utah, as part of an organizational overhaul that involves shuttering research facilities in 31 states and concentrating resources in the West.

Trump administration to relocate U.S. Forest Service headquarters to Utah

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San Bernardino County firefighters testing sound wave technology to battle fires

The San Bernardino County Fire Department tested new technology from Sonic Fire Tech on Monday which was designed with the help of former NASA acoustics engineers to help suppress fires by using sound waves.

San Bernardino County firefighters testing sound wave technology to battle fires

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No snow. No water. Restrictions grow across West as drought fears rise

With much of the U.S. suffering under drought conditions, leaving the headwaters of the Colorado River among the driest places, along with south Texas and all of Florida, civic officials across the West have begun ordering restrictions on watering lawns and cleaning cars as they brace for what could be a daunting fire season.

No snow. No water. Restrictions grow across West as drought fears rise

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WATCH | Helicopter crashes during Hout Bay fire, pilot survives

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Patrick Ryan, the Director of Vulcan Risk Solutions in Cape Town, South Africa, sent along an article with the following comments: "There was a lucky escape for the pilot of a Kishugu Huey helicopter during aerial suppression mop-up operations in the Hout Bay Pipe Track Fire. While investigation into the crash is ongoing the link below is to the news article. What was extremely fortunate is that the Volunteer Wildfire Services ground crew, led by a very experienced Crew Leader, who were on the mountain at the time, weren't underneath the helicopter when it was water bombing but they were close enough to assist with the safe evacuation of the pilot from the downed helicopter."

WATCH | Helicopter crashes during Hout Bay fire, pilot survives

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Senators introduce bill to overhaul US power grid and reduce wildfire risks

U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley introduced the Wildfire and Grid Reliability Act Wednesday to overhaul aging power line infrastructure and establish a $15 billion annual grant program to reduce wildfire risks and energy costs.

Senators introduce bill to overhaul US power grid and reduce wildfire risks

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U.S. Wildfires Have Already Claimed 1.4 Million Acres in 2026—and Experts Warn It Will Get Worse

With more than 1.45 million acres across the Western U.S. already blackened by wildfires in 2026, multiple states are now bracing for what could be one of the country's most devastating fire seasons in years.

U.S. Wildfires Have Already Claimed 1.4 Million Acres in 2026—and Experts Warn It Will Get Worse

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Wildfires rip through unusual parts of US., raising fears of a brutal season

In a Washington Post article, a staff meteorologist for Watch Duty, a nonprofit that tracks wildfires live and sends updates to users in real time, pointed to a spate of early-season wildfires across the Southwest and the Great Plains as a warning sign that a catastrophic wildfire season could be ahead.

Wildfires rip through unusual parts of US., raising fears of a brutal season

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When are wildfire evacuations most dangerous? Research finds leaving late risks lives

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Hunter Bassler, a Journalist at the IAWF's Wildfire Today, reported that a new study published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction showed the virtue of evacuating early during a wildfire emergency.

When are wildfire evacuations most dangerous? Research finds leaving late risks lives

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Wildland firefighting snag hazards: Reducing the risk of falling trees

FireRescue1 provided some information on tree strike injuries, using injury data and recent research that clarify how and when these incidents occur, where exposure tends to increase and which tactics meaningfully reduce risk for wildland firefighters.

Wildland firefighting snag hazards: Reducing the risk of falling trees

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AMAP Arctic Climate Change Update 2024 features CAMS wildfire data

Wildfire NOTD subscriber Mark Parrington, Senior Scientist at the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts' Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service, discussed the Arctic Climate Change Update 2024 – Key Trends and Impacts study, which shows that wildfire activity across the Arctic and high northern latitudes has risen in recent decades.

AMAP Arctic Climate Change Update 2024 features CAMS wildfire data

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