In 2026, AccuWeather projects that between 65,000 and 80,000 wildfires will ignite across the United States, potentially burning 5.5 to 8 million acres, exceeding the 5.1 million acres burned in 2025. The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) elevated its National Preparedness Level to 2 as early as March 20, 2026, following an unprecedented early-season heat wave that accelerated drying across the Western and Southern U.S.
In much of the western U.S., wildfire activity typically intensifies during summer and early fall as heat, drought, and wind conditions worsen. Wildfires, especially in the West, are unavoidable, but there are several ways to prepare and keep yourself and your home safe.
Our guide on preparing for the 2026 wildfire season lets you know the updated wildfire forecast for regions across the United States, as well as tips and supplies to have on hand in case you’re in danger.
2026 Wildfire Outlook
The following regional outlook synthesizes information from NIFC Predictive Services, AccuWeather’s seasonal forecast, and U.S. Drought Monitor data. Facility managers and EHS personnel in affected regions should prioritize EAP review and supply inventory audits immediately.
| Region | 2026 Outlook |
|---|---|
| Southwest & Great Basin | Above-normal fire potential through the summer, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Utah. The broadest and most persistent risk zone nationally. Monsoon moisture may suppress late-season activity but can also introduce lightning ignitions. |
| Pacific Northwest | Above-normal risk is expected from July through August as snowpack depletes, fuels dry, and dry thunderstorms increase. Central and eastern Oregon and the northern Great Basin are key areas of concern. |
| Northern California | Above-normal significant fire potential forecast for June and beyond, particularly at lower elevations. A coastal marine layer may delay the onset, but the risk increases significantly during late summer and fall wind events. |
| Rocky Mountains | Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho face above-normal fire activity from July onward, with peak potential in August. Reduced snowpack and persistent warm conditions are the primary drivers. |
| Texas & Southern Plains | Texas entered 2026 with 69% of the state in moderate-to-exceptional drought — up from 41% one year prior. Above-normal fire potential is expected through mid-summer. Oklahoma and Kansas also face elevated risk. |
| Southeast U.S. | Early-season drought conditions increased wildfire concerns across portions of Florida and the Southeast heading into spring 2026. Flash drought development may accelerate conditions in coastal and inland industrial corridors. |
| Mid-Atlantic & Appalachians | Expanding drought and limited rainfall in the central Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic region elevate wildfire risk in July, particularly relevant for facilities in mixed forest-industrial zones. |
| Alaska | Near-normal to slightly above-normal activity is expected. El Niño’s influence may extend the active season, though early-season moisture has provided some buffering. |
*Note: Forecasts are subject to monthly revision. EHS managers should consult the NIFC Predictive Services Outlook at nifc.gov for current updates throughout the season.
How to Prepare for the 2026 Wildfire Season
If you are in any of the areas above or near current wildfires, it is best to be prepared for any incoming danger.
Our guide for preparing for wildfires includes tips on what supplies to have stocked on your shelves, apps installed on your phone, and information on evacuation plans.
Have Emergency Supplies Readily Available
A prepared emergency kit with proper supplies could mean the difference between life and death during a fire-related emergency.
We recommend putting together a wildfire emergency kit including:
- Respirators and filters
- Chargers for electronics
- Face masks
- At least three days’ worth of non-perishable food and three gallons of water per person
- Proper medications
- A map with evacuation routes
- First aid kit
- Sanitation supplies
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered radio, such as an NOAA Radio
If possible, grab easy-to-carry valuables and irreplaceable items such as family photos within reach in the event of an evacuation.
Since they rely on us for their safety and wellbeing, we can’t forget about our four-legged friends. The Red Cross suggests having a second emergency kit ready, this one with them in mind. An emergency kit for your dog or cat should include:
- Leashes, harnesses, or carriers to prevent escape
- Plenty of food and clean water, plus bowls
- Toys, beds, and blankets (if easily moveable)
- Any relevant information regarding their medical condition, feeding schedule, and the name of your veterinarian
Keep Track of Fires in Your Area
If you live in an area prone to wildfires, you need a reliable way to keep an eye out for any fires in your area. Options include AirNow’s Fire and Smoke Map, Weather.gov’s Hazard Map, and the Emergency Alert System on the NOAA Weather Radio.
Several good fire map apps available can be downloaded directly to your phone, which all allow you time to prepare and evacuate. Consider downloading ones like Wildfire Alert, DisasterAlert, AFIS, or Fireguard.
Know Your Community’s Evacuation Plans
In addition to being aware of your surroundings, it’s essential to know how to escape your surroundings if you need to. Research any evacuation plans your community has put into place, but go even further to find several ways to leave the area on your own.
When creating your evacuation plan, mark it clearly on a map and practice. When driving the route, look for any available shelters and mark them.
When preparing for evacuation, identify several accessible meeting points along the evacuation route in case you and your group become separated. Consider investing in walkie-talkies if your cell phone dies or you lose reception.
Prepare Your Home for Wildfires
Of course, an essential part of being ready for wildfire is ensuring your home is as safe as possible. It’s not just direct exposure to flames that can destroy your home: radiant heat and flying embers can also destroy homes and are responsible for many destroyed homes.
You can take steps to harden your home to increase the likelihood of its survival when fire hits. This includes retrofitting your roof, building surfaces with ignition-resistant or non-combustible materials, and installing dual-pane windows to reduce the chance of shattered glass.
Make sure your property includes defensible space. This space contains grass, trees, shrubs, and woodland that serve as a buffer between the fire and your home. This area will help slow or stop the fire and protect your home from catching fire due to heat, flame, or embers, while also providing firefighters with a safe working area.
Ready for Wildfire has a great guide to preparing your home, which you can view here.
Are You Preparing For Wildfire Season? LifeSecure Emergency Solutions Has The Supplies You Need.
A wildfire is one of the most devastating natural disasters, and with the season in full swing, it’s crucial to be prepared.
Always be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. Stay informed by listening to local news and radio stations. Keep your emergency kit within easy reach and identify nearby shelters.
If you need supplies, our wide selection of non-perishable food, first-aid kits, and battery-operated radios provide enough protection to get your wildfire preparedness bag started.
