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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Wildfire

    The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Bureau of Forestry is responsible for protecting the Commonwealth’s 17 million acres of public and private wildlands from damage by wildfire. This is accomplished by a combination of mitigation, prevention, preparedness, suppression, and investigation.

    Observed Wildfire Danger Map (PDF)
    Wildfire Danger Forecast Map (PDF)

    Overview

    The greatest danger of wildfires in Pennsylvania occurs during the spring months of March, April, and May, and the autumn months of October and November.

    In Pennsylvania, 99 percent of all wildfires are caused by people.

    Certain conditions are necessary for a wildfire to occur:

    • An available fuel source, such as dried grass or leaves
    • Dry conditions, including low relative humidity
    • An ignition source — some way for the fire to start

    The first two factors occur most frequently in Pennsylvania during spring and autumn.

    As the spring sun climbs higher in the sky, days become longer and warmer.

    The trees are bare during this time, allowing sunlight to reach the forest floor, warming the ground, and drying surface fuels.

    Coupled with strong and dry spring winds, this leads to a tremendous amount of combustible fuels.

    During autumn, leaves turn color and begin to fall, accumulating in a deep, fluffy layer that creates a fire hazard.

    The third factor, an ignition source, also frequently occurs during these periods.

    Wildfire Safety

    Questions?

    For general information about wildland fire, contact the DCNR Bureau of Forestry.

    Annual Wildfire Summaries