Illinois Fires

## Daily Wildfire Report for Illinois - July 28, 2025

### Overview
Illinois currently faces a low wildfire risk compared to many western states, attributed to its more humid climate and recent weather patterns that have favored above-normal precipitation. As of the last 72 hours, there have been no major active wildfires reported in the state. The region has experienced significant severe storms and flooding in recent years, contributing to minimal wildfire activity. The National Weather Service forecasts above-normal precipitation for the eastern U.S., including Illinois, which further reduces the likelihood of large fire outbreaks in the near term.

### Current Situation
**Fire Activity:** There are no significant wildfires currently active in Illinois. The state's fire risk remains low due to recent rainfall and generally moist fuel conditions.

**Key Fires:** No significant fires are currently active in Illinois.

**Fuel Conditions:** Illinois' landscape is a mosaic of agricultural lands, forests, and grasslands. While dry grasses and leaf litter in forested areas could potentially fuel wildfires, these conditions are not currently critical due to recent precipitation.

### Prescribed Burns and Land Management
Prescribed burning is recognized as a valuable land management tool in Illinois for ecological restoration, wildlife management, and invasive species control. The Illinois Prescribed Burning Act authorizes and promotes its use for ecological, forest, wetland, wildlife, and grassland management. Prescribed burns help reduce fuel loads, thereby lowering the risk and severity of wildfires.

The Forest Preserves of Cook County conduct prescribed burns annually, typically between mid-October and mid-April, to manage fire-dependent natural communities. These burns help control invasive species like buckthorn and honeysuckle, while promoting the germination and growth of native plants.

Landowners are responsible for conducting prescribed burns safely, obtaining necessary permits, and informing local fire departments. Key considerations for prescribed burns include wind direction and speed, humidity, and the establishment of adequate firebreaks.

There are no current statewide reports of burn bans in effect for Illinois.

### Weather and Wind Warnings
The National Weather Service Chicago Office is responsible for fire weather forecasts for Northern Illinois and Northwest Indiana.

**Current Weather:** As of Monday, July 28, 2025, the weather in Illinois is mostly cloudy with a chance of rain. Temperatures are in the mid-80s Fahrenheit, with humidity around 74%.

**Forecasted Weather:** The forecast for the next 72 hours indicates a chance of rain, with temperatures fluctuating between the mid-70s and upper-80s Fahrenheit. While no Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches are currently in effect for Illinois, it is important to note that in March 2025, a Fire Weather Watch was issued for central Illinois due to forecasted high winds and low relative humidity. Residents should remain aware of any future weather alerts.

### Outlook
Illinois' wildfire risk is expected to remain low in the immediate future due to favorable weather conditions, including above-normal precipitation forecasts. However, climate change projections suggest a potential increase in the frequency and duration of fire weather events in the region over the long term, necessitating continued vigilance in fire preparedness and management.

### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
* **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov](https://www.nifc.gov/)
* **Illinois Emergency Information Network:** While a specific statewide network for wildfire alerts was not directly found, residents should monitor local news and emergency management agency websites for the most current information.
* **National Weather Service Chicago:** [www.weather.gov/chi/](https://www.weather.gov/chi/) (for local weather and potential fire weather alerts)
* **Illinois Department of Natural Resources:** [www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Pages/default.aspx](https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/Pages/default.aspx)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

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