US National Interagency Fire Center Wildfire Update for May 15

The US National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) reported that as of Friday, May 15, 12 large fires are actively burning across the country, with 3 new fires reported in the last day.

The National Fire Preparedness Level remains at 2 out of 5. Nearly 2,000 personnel are assigned to incidents nationwide, including one Complex Incident Management Team supporting response efforts.

Wildland firefighters continue to face challenging conditions on multiple fronts as warmer temperatures, dry fuels, and periods of gusty winds contribute to increased wildfire potential. In New Mexico, the Seven Cabins Fire in the Lincoln National Forest is exhibiting wind-driven runs and spotting. The Hunggate Fire in Texas prompted evacuations and road closures as crews worked to slow fire spread.

In Utah, the Wild Horse Fire continues to grow in grass and brush fuels, while firefighters in Wyoming are responding to the Spread Creek Fire near Jackson. Across the Southern Area, crews continue making progress on several ongoing fires in Florida and Georgia as conditions begin to dry following recent precipitation.

Daily Statistics

As of Friday, there are 12 large wildfires or emergency responses ongoing, with 8 partially contained.

Florida and Oklahoma each lead with 3 active fires. Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming each have 1 active fire.

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

• Year-to-date through May 15, 2026, 26,568 wildfires have been reported, burning 1,918,424 acres.
• During the same period last year, 25,619 wildfires were reported, burning 1,087,958 acres.
• The 10-year average (2016–25) for the same period is 19,893 wildfires and 1,085,356 acres burned.