### National Wildfire Summary Report

**Date:** July 29, 2025

**National Preparedness Level:** The United States is currently at Preparedness Level 4. This indicates significant wildfire activity across multiple geographic areas and a high demand for firefighting resources. National resources are heavily committed, and personnel and equipment are stretched thin.

**Year-to-Date Statistics:** As of July 17, 2025, over 2.8 million acres have burned in the U.S. across more than 40,000 fires. The number of fires is below the 10-year average for this time of year, but the total area burned is significantly higher than the 10-year average. The wildfire season is tracking below the 10-year average for acres burned overall, despite significant early-season fires.

**Current Fire Season Context:** The 2025 wildfire season is characterized by elevated fire activity and increased demand for resources. Several areas of the U.S. are experiencing hot, dry conditions and dry fuels, increasing the potential for new ignitions and large fire growth. Forecasters expect this season to remain active through September.

### Significant Wildfire Situations (Last 72 Hours)

Over the past 72 hours, several regions have experienced impactful wildfire activity. Key areas of concern include:

* **The Pacific Northwest:** Both Washington and Oregon are experiencing abnormally dry conditions and drought status, with a high probability of above-average temperatures continuing.
* **The Intermountain West:** States like Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and Arizona are facing very dry air and poor overnight humidity recovery, coupled with breezy winds in some areas, contributing to a high potential for fire ignition and spread.
* **California:** While specific large fires are not detailed in the provided reports for the last 72 hours, the state has seen significant wildfire activity earlier in the season, with conditions that continue to pose a risk.

### Firefighting Efforts

More than 11,800 wildland firefighters and support personnel are currently assigned to wildfires across the country. The U.S. Forest Service has reached 99% of its firefighter staffing target, with full staffing of 11,300 wildland firefighters expected. However, there are reports of significant staffing shortages within the U.S. Forest Service, with over one-quarter of positions vacant, impacting the ability to suppress large wildfires and increasing risks for firefighters.

### Weather and Fire Conditions

Across much of the West, very dry air and poor overnight humidity recovery persist, particularly in Nevada, Idaho, Utah, Colorado, and Arizona. Breezy southwest winds are expected in parts of Nevada and Utah, further increasing fire danger. Thunderstorms, both wet and dry, are possible in several western states, and even a single lightning strike or spark can ignite fast-spreading fires under these conditions.

**Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches:** While specific current Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches are not detailed in the provided summaries, these alerts are issued when conditions are conducive to the rapid spread of wildfires. Such conditions typically involve warm temperatures, very low humidity, and stronger winds. Communities in areas experiencing these weather patterns should be particularly vigilant and adhere to any fire restrictions or burn bans. The predictive outlook indicates a continued high potential for wildfires in many western regions through the summer.

### Information for Concerned Residents and Citizens

* **Stay Informed:** Monitor local news and official sources, such as the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) and local fire departments, for the latest updates on wildfire activity and any evacuation orders or warnings.
* **Prepare Your Home:** Create and practice an evacuation plan. Ensure your home is prepared for wildfires by maintaining defensible space around your property.
* **Prevent Human-Caused Fires:** Be extremely cautious with any outdoor flames. Ensure campfires are completely extinguished, and properly dispose of cigarettes. Remember that humans cause a significant majority of wildfires.
* **Heed Warnings:** Pay close attention to Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches. These indicate critical fire weather conditions, and residents in affected areas should take extra precautions.

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