Pennsylvania Fires

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

### Overview
Pennsylvania is currently experiencing hot and humid conditions, with temperatures reaching into the low to mid-90s Fahrenheit, and heat index values potentially feeling over 100°F in some areas. While there are no widespread Red Flag Warnings or significant wildfire activity reported across the state in the last 72 hours, the combination of high temperatures and dry fuels can contribute to increased fire risk. The greatest danger of wildfires in Pennsylvania typically occurs during the spring and autumn months, with human activity being the leading cause.

### Current Situation
**Fire Activity:** Over the past 72 hours, there have been no major wildfire incidents reported that require national attention or have significant acreage burned. Pennsylvania has experienced over 1,400 wildfires annually in recent years, with human activity accounting for 99% of these ignitions. Debris burning is identified as a leading cause of wildfires in the state.

**Key Fires:** No significant active fires are currently being reported in Pennsylvania.

### Prescribed Burns and Land Management
Prescribed burns are an ongoing land management tool used by various agencies in Pennsylvania, including the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PAGC) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC). These burns are conducted to improve wildlife habitat, control invasive species, and reduce the risk of larger wildfires by managing fuel loads.

The Nature Conservancy is conducting controlled burns on its preserves in northeast Pennsylvania intermittently through May 31, pending favorable weather conditions. Smoke may be visible in Monroe County during these operations. The PAGC also conducts prescribed fires on State Game Lands and lands enrolled in the Hunter Access Program. Prescribed fires can occur throughout the year, but most commonly take place in spring and fall when grasses are dormant and leaves have fallen.

### Weather and Wind Warnings
**Current Weather:** The forecast for Pennsylvania indicates hot and humid conditions over the next several days. Today, July 28, 2025, Franklin County is experiencing mostly sunny and very hot weather with a high near 94°F (35°C), with heat index values feeling like 100–104°F. Similar conditions are expected for Tuesday, with highs near 98°F (36°C) and heat index values potentially reaching 104–105°F. An extreme heat warning was previously issued for parts of Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey, highlighting the potential for dangerous conditions due to high temperatures and humidity.

**Forecasted Weather:** Scattered thunderstorms are possible on Wednesday, with a chance of localized heavy rain and damaging wind gusts. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread on Thursday, bringing cooler temperatures with highs near 80°F. The latter part of the week into the weekend is expected to bring cooler and calmer weather.

**Fire Weather Warnings:** There are currently no active Red Flag Warnings or Fire Weather Watches reported for Pennsylvania. However, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) categorizes wildfire danger levels from Low to Extreme, with "Very High" and "Extreme" conditions indicating that wildfires start easily, spread rapidly, and are very difficult to control.

### Recommendations
Residents are advised to stay hydrated and limit sun exposure during the current hot weather. While no statewide burn bans are currently in effect, local municipalities may enact their own restrictions. Residents should check with their local authorities for any specific burning regulations.

### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
* **Ready PA:** [Ready.PA.gov](https://www.ready.pa.gov/)
* **Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) - Wildfire Information:** [www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/ForestsAndTrees/Wildfires/Pages/default.aspx](https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/ForestsAndTrees/Wildfires/Pages/default.aspx)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

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