The United States has experienced a devastating wildfire year, with more than 8.3 million acres burned so far, marking the most destructive year by acreage in at least a decade. This data comes from the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). Firefighters have responded to 53,030 wildfires nationwide, particularly in the West, where large blazes persist despite some improvements in weather conditions.
This milestone follows a summer of extreme fire activity across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and other states where millions of acres were consumed and thousands of firefighters deployed. Due to this rise in fire activity, federal officials increased the national preparedness level to its peak during much of the summer. It was only lowered to Level 4 on September 4 as conditions in some regions improved.
Despite cooler temperatures in the Pacific Northwest, NIFC warns late summer and fall periods remain hazardous, with exceptionally dry vegetation across much of the country. Fire officials continue to caution the public about potential ignition sources such as vehicles, equipment, and campfires.
Oregon reported the highest number of acres burned this year, with 1,199,105 acres, while Washington state followed with 398,064 acres.
Data from previous years show that the acreage burned in 2026 exceeds that of recent years. By late August, over 7.7 million acres had already burned compared to about 4 million acres during the same period in 2025.
Analysis of the Last 10 Years of Fire Data
Between January 1 and September 5 from 2016 to 2026, wildfire activity has varied both in the number of fires and the total acreage burned, as indicated by NIFC data.
The 2026 season recorded the highest acreage burned in this period, with 8,307,707 acres affected by 53,030 fires. The 2017 season was next with 7,925,998 acres burned from 47,298 fires. The 2023 season had the least impact in this timeframe, with 2,096,906 acres burned across 40,444 fires.
Active Large Fires in the U.S.
As of September 5, firefighters are working to control 78 large fires nationwide, involving nearly 17,812 firefighters and support personnel. Washington and Montana reported the most significant concentrations of these fires, with Oregon and Idaho following closely.
Notable large fires include:
- Big Grass Fire, Oregon: 578,637 acres, 94% contained.
- Crosswhite Fire, Oregon: 342,923 acres, 92% contained.
- Coleman Creek Fire, Oregon: 308,863 acres, 99% contained.
- Little Giant Fire, Washington: 170,784 acres, 81% contained.
- Sinlahekin Fire, Washington: 166,106 acres, 44% contained.
The Pacific Northwest remains central to wildfire activity. However, NIFC notes that cooler temperatures and added moisture are reducing large-fire potential in parts of Washington, Oregon, and Northern California.
Officials continue to highlight the danger posed by extremely dry fuels. There is a warning that new fire starts are still possible as the wildfire season moves into its final months. “Even if temperatures are coming down in your area, maintain heightened awareness of any possible sources of ignition,” NIFC stated in a press release.
They advised those planning Labor Day travels to ensure vehicles are well-maintained and secure any loose items that might create sparks. Campfire and barbeque safety were emphasized, with advice to ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving them unattended.
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