US wildfires have burned nearly 1.9 million acres across the United States so far in 2026, with more than 25,500 recorded and acreage burned already significantly above the 10-year average for this point in the year.
According to the latest national fire statistics, 25,560 fires have burned 1,881,436 acres between January 1 and May 11, compared with the 10-year average of 17,713 fires and 1,052,600 acres burned over the same period.
The Southern Area continues to see the highest wildfire activity, with firefighters responding to multiple incidents in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. In Florida, the South Canal Fire remains one of the most active incidents, showing wind-driven fire runs and long-range spotting as crews work to protect nearby communities, infrastructure and natural resources.
Nationwide, 12 large fires are currently active across eight states, with no fires yet reported as fully contained. Florida accounts for the highest number of active large fires with five, followed by single incidents in Oklahoma, California, Arizona, North Carolina, Oregon, Michigan and New Mexico.
Current active fires have burned a combined 15,770 acres, with two new large fires or emergency responses reported in the latest update.
In the Southwest, the Hummingbird Fire burning on the Gila National Forest in New Mexico remains active, although recent precipitation has helped moderate fire behavior in some areas. Fire officials also reported new large fires in Oregon and Southern California, where dry vegetation and gusty winds continue to create difficult conditions for firefighters.
Florida currently leads the nation in active wildfire acreage, with five fires burning 8,149 acres. Oregon has one fire burning 2,589 acres, while California has one fire at 2,278 acres. Arizona has one fire burning 1,191 acres, Oklahoma has one at 907 acres, New Mexico has one at 359 acres, Michigan has one at 195 acres and North Carolina has one burning 102 acres.
This year’s wildfire activity is also running ahead of 2025, when 24,868 fires had burned 1,024,657 acres by May 11.
Officials said May’s designation as Wildfire Awareness Month is a reminder of the importance of prevention and preparedness, particularly as warmer temperatures and drying conditions increase fire risk across much of the country.
Nearly 85% of wildfires in the United States are caused by people and are considered preventable, according to fire officials. Authorities are urging the public to take precautions including checking trailer chains for sparks, following local fire restrictions and ensuring campfires are fully extinguished.
The 2026 National Fire Year Themes emphasize firefighter safety and preventing human-caused fires, as agencies continue coordinating resources to respond quickly and limit fire growth.
