National Fire News

March 20, 2026

The national preparedness level has increased to PL 2 today as fire activity begins to expand across multiple geographic areas. This step reflects a familiar seasonal shift. In both February and March, PL 2 has historically marked the point where activity becomes more coordinated at a national level, even if overall demand for resources remains manageable.

Right now, that is exactly what we are seeing. Several geographic areas are experiencing increased fire activity and are beginning to draw on national resources to support incident objectives. At the same time, the system remains stable, with enough capacity to meet current needs while staying ready for what may come next.

Over the past week, 821 fires were reported nationwide, with 47 new large incidents and 28 large fires still uncontained. Most activity is centered in the Southern and Rocky Mountain areas, where seasonal conditions are allowing fires to emerge and spread. One incident management team is currently assigned in the Rocky Mountain Area, supporting ongoing operations.

This week also brought the first Fuels and Fire Behavior Advisory of 2026, highlighting a large area across the central and southern Great Plains, including parts of Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. This advisory points to a landscape primed for fire. Above-normal grass growth, combined with leftover fuels from last year and newly cured vegetation, has created continuous fuel beds across more than 100 million acres.

Under recent hot, dry conditions, these fine fuels are highly receptive to ignition and can support rapid, wind-driven fire spread. We have already seen what that can look like. The Ranger Road fire in February moved nearly 70 miles in a single burning period. With fuel moistures trending near record lows for this time of year, similar conditions could support fast-moving fires and new large fire activity when winds align.

This time of year often feels like a quiet transition, but it is an important one. Moving to PL 2 is less about how busy things are today and more about what we are preparing for tomorrow. It is a signal that coordination is increasing, awareness is sharpening, and the system is beginning to lean forward.

Preparation and response go hand in hand when it comes to wildfires. Whether on the fireline or at home, those early actions make a difference, and it takes all of us.

Could 2026 be your year to join the wildland fire community? Wildland fire careers combine service, teamwork and meaningful work protecting communities and public lands. Seasonal firefighter, fire support and leadership positions are now listed on USAJOBS. Search “firefighter” or “wildland fire” to see current opportunities.