US National Interagency Fire Center Wildfire Update for March 6

The US National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) reported that as of Friday, March 6, nine large fires are actively burning across the country. Over the past week, 627 wildfires were reported nationwide, including 45 new large fires, while 49 large fires were contained.

The National Fire Preparedness Level remains at 1 out of 5.

Wildland fire activity remains relatively light as the US moves toward spring. Most current activity is concentrated in the Southern Area, where warmer temperatures, dry vegetation, and seasonal weather patterns often increase fire risk. States including Florida, Oklahoma, Georgia, and Mississippi have reported several incidents burning in grass, timber, and southern rough fuels.

Many of these fires have displayed moderate behavior, including creeping, backing, and short runs. Some incidents have also threatened nearby homes or infrastructure.

Daily Statistics

As of Friday, there are nine large wildfires or emergency responses ongoing.

Oklahoma leads with three active fires; Florida has two; and Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Texas each have one.

The updated year-to-date comparison is as follows:

• Year-to-date through March 6, 9,855 wildfires have been reported, burning 474,707 acres.
• During the same period last year, 8,005 wildfires were reported, burning 168,476 acres.
• The 10-year average (2016–25) for the same period is 5,651 wildfires and 269,732 acres burned.