National Preparedness Level 5 Declared Amid High US Wildfire Activity

The National Interagency Fire Center has declared a National Preparedness Level 5, indicating significant wildfire activity across the United States. Currently, 72 large fires are being managed, with nearly 3.9 million acres burned this year, and new incidents continue to emerge. The Northwest Geographic Area is particularly busy, and widespread smoke is impacting air quality in multiple states, posing health and safety concerns.