West Virginia fires

### Daily Wildfire Report for West Virginia - April 24, 2025

#### Overview
West Virginia is currently experiencing conditions that could elevate the risk of wildfires, although the state is not as prominently featured in national wildfire reports as some other regions. The recent drought status update for the Midwest, which includes parts of West Virginia, highlights potential impacts such as inadequate moisture for the growing season and an elevated risk for wildfires if drought conditions persist or develop[3].

#### Current Situation
- **Fire Activity:** While there are no specific large-scale wildfires currently reported in West Virginia, the national context indicates an increased fire risk in various regions across the United States. Nationally, 31 new large fires were reported in the past week, primarily in the Southern, Eastern, Rocky Mountain, and Northern Rockies areas[2].
- **Local Conditions:** A cold front is expected to pass through the region on Saturday, followed by dry conditions on Sunday. This could potentially increase the fire danger, especially if dry conditions persist[4].

#### Key Details
- **Drought Conditions:** West Virginia is experiencing drought conditions that could exacerbate wildfire risks. The drought status update warns of potential impacts including elevated risk for wildfires due to inadequate moisture[3].
- **Fire Weather Outlook:** The Kanawha area, including cities like Charleston and South Charleston, is expected to see a cold front pass on Saturday with dry conditions following on Sunday. This could increase the fire danger temporarily[4].
- **Prescribed Burns and Land Management:** There is no current information on prescribed burns or specific land management activities in West Virginia. However, it is important to note that 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 mindful of fire risks, especially during dry periods. It is crucial to have an emergency plan in place and to clear dead brush from properties to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires.
- **Resource Allocation:** While there are no large-scale wildfires currently in West Virginia, residents should remain vigilant and prepared. Fire departments and emergency services are on standby to respond to any potential fires.

#### Resources
For up-to-date emergency information, residents can visit:
- **National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC):** [www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn](https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn)
- **West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD):** [www.wvemd.us](https://www.wvemd.us)
- **National Weather Service - Charleston, WV:** [www.weather.gov/rlx](https://www.weather.gov/rlx)

Stay informed and prepared by monitoring these resources regularly.

#### Additional Information
- **FEMA Assistance:** While not directly related to wildfires, residents in certain counties affected by recent winter storms have until April 28, 2025, to apply for FEMA assistance. This includes support for home repairs, personal property losses, and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance[5].

CITATIONS

['https://www.nifc.gov/nicc-files/sitreprt.pdf', 'https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/nfn', 'https://www.drought.gov/drought-status-updates/drought-status-update-midwest-2025-04-24', 'https://www.weather.gov/rlx/FWF_WVZ015', 'https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20250405/west-virginians-have-until-april-28-2025-apply-disaster-assistance']