Vermont fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for Vermont - April 24, 2025

#### Overview
Vermont is experiencing an increased risk of wildfires due to abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions across the state. This situation is exacerbated by the extension of the wildfire season, which is now starting earlier in the spring and lasting later in the fall, a trend observed globally due to climate change.

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** While there are no large-scale active wildfires currently reported in Vermont, the state has seen an increase in wildfire activity in recent months. Last fall, there were 38 wildfires in October and November, significantly higher than the three reported in the same months in 2023[5].
- **Drought Conditions:** The Upper Valley of Vermont is experiencing abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. This drought status contributes to an elevated risk for wildfires[5].
- **Recent Incidents:** There have been no recent major wildfires reported in Vermont as of the latest updates. However, the state's fire departments are preparing for an extended wildfire season based on past trends[5].

#### Key Details
- **Fire Risk:** The increased number of wildfires in the fall of 2024, including a significant fire in Barnard that burned 57 acres, highlights the growing fire risk in Vermont. This is much larger than the 10-year average brush fire size of less than 2 acres[5].
- **Burn Permits:** Burn permits are required in most towns when there is no snow on the ground. Residents are advised to contact their town forest fire warden to obtain the necessary permits before conducting any burning activities[5].
- **Prescribed Burns:** There are no current reports of prescribed burns or other land management activities in Vermont. However, such operations are typically conducted to reduce hazardous fuel accumulations and minimize the risk of high-severity wildfires.

#### Recommendations
- **Public Awareness:** Residents are advised to be vigilant about fire risks and to have an emergency plan in place. Clearing dead brush from properties and adhering to burn permit regulations can significantly reduce the risk of catastrophic fires[5].
- **Resource Allocation:** Fire departments across Vermont are preparing for the extended wildfire season. Residents should stay informed and follow local guidelines to ensure readiness in case of a wildfire.

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation:** [fpr.vermont.gov](https://fpr.vermont.gov/)
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)
- **U.S. Drought Monitor:** [droughtmonitor.unl.edu](https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/)

#### Fire Weather and Wind Warnings
There are currently no specific fire weather or wind warnings issued for Vermont. However, residents should remain aware of the dry conditions and potential for windy days that could exacerbate fire risks.

#### Additional Information
Given the regional context, it is important to note that while Vermont itself does not have any major active wildfires at this time, neighboring regions are experiencing significant fire activity. For example, a large wildfire in New Jersey has highlighted the risks associated with drought and windy conditions[4]. Staying informed about regional fire risks can help in preparing for potential local incidents.

CITATIONS

['https://www.battstaging.com/fire/2025021/', 'https://www.drought.gov/drought-status-updates/drought-status-update-midwest-2025-04-24', 'https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUBgwQpFBHM', 'https://www.wbal.com/teen-charged-with-allegedly-starting-massive-new-jersey-wildfire', 'https://www.vnews.com/Upper-Valley-Fire-Risk-and-Response-60023832']