Wildfires are currently raging across the U.S., particularly in North Carolina, Florida, and Oklahoma, driven by drought conditions and debris from past hurricanes.

As of late March 2025, approximately 14,800 wildfires have burned over 1,105 square miles this year, significantly exceeding the 10-year average, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Currently, 45% of the U.S. is experiencing drought, compared to a historical average of 20%, which exacerbates wildfire risks.

Fire officials report that climate change has rendered the concept of a distinct 'fire season' obsolete, leading to longer and more intense wildfires throughout the year.

In Florida, dozens of active blazes include a significant brush fire in Miami-Dade County, which has burned approximately 42 square miles and is now 95% contained.

Counties across Florida are under red flag warnings due to favorable conditions for fire outbreaks, as drought conditions contribute to an early fire season.

The southeastern U.S. and southern Plains are experiencing high wildfire potential, with risks extending into April for states like Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.

In North Carolina, strong winds from Hurricane Helene have downed power lines, igniting fires that have burned for over a week amid the lowest recorded humidity levels this month.

Difficult terrain and fallen trees in North Carolina are hampering firefighting efforts, with fire danger expected to persist for years due to accumulated debris.

Experts attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires to both short-term weather patterns like La Nina and long-term climate change effects.

Debris from hurricanes Laura, Ida, Debby, and Idalia, as well as ice storms, continues to pose wildfire risks in many states.

The most destructive wildfires this year occurred in Los Angeles in January, fueled by dry vegetation and strong winds that devastated entire neighborhoods.