As early October arrives, the 2026 wildland fire season stands as one of the most destructive on record, with more than 9 million acres burned nationwide and fire activity still ongoing across the Pacific Northwest and California, according to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC).

As of October 2, firefighters were actively working to contain 11 large fires across the country, with 4,093 personnel — including 65 crews, 119 engines, and 26 helicopters — assigned to active incidents. Fires are concentrated in three geographic areas: the Northwest, Southern California, and the Southern region.

Season Statistics

Year-to-date statistics paint a stark picture of the 2026 season's severity:

  • 62,738 fires reported through October 2 — 135% of the 10-year average
  • 9 million-plus acres burned — 147% of the 10-year average for this date
  • Compared to the same period in 2025: 53,319 fires and 4.69 million acres
  • Surpassing even the devastating 2020 season (44,541 fires, 7.72 million acres)

Where Fires Are Active

Eight large fires remained active as of October 4, spanning three states:

  • Washington (3 fires): Little Giant (172,902 acres, 93% contained), Sinlahekin (166,007 acres, 99% contained), and Sisi (4,352 acres, 29% contained)
  • Oregon (2 fires): Grasshopper (93,972 acres, 98% contained) and Austin (12,888 acres, 98% contained), both on Mt. Hood National Forest
  • California (3 fires): Dome in Yosemite (6,670 acres, 40% contained), Timber in Los Padres National Forest (25,350 acres, 88% contained), and the newly ignited Bouquet fire near Saugus in the Angeles National Forest

National Preparedness Level

NIFC lowered the National Preparedness Level to 2 on September 22, 2026 — down from the elevated levels seen during the peak summer months — reflecting improved conditions across much of the West as fall weather patterns set in. Temperatures across the West have climbed 5–15°F above normal in early October, but declining sun angles and increasing fuel moisture have significantly reduced fire spread potential in the Northwest.

Looking Ahead

NIFC's Predictive Services office released its October 2026 through January 2027 outlook, finding that the most significant fire potential will persist in the Southern geographic area — stretching from eastern Texas to Kentucky — and in Puerto Rico. The Pacific Northwest is expected to see continued improvement as fall precipitation and dropping Energy Release Component (ERC) values take hold.