CONCORD, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) With the arrival of warmer, drier spring weather and on the heels of a National Weather Service Red Flag Warning this past weekend in the state, New Hampshire is entering a critical time for both severe weather and wildfire risk. This week, April 20–26, marks Severe Weather Awareness Week, and it overlaps with the newly proclaimed Wildfire Awareness Week, declared by Governor Kelly Ayotte for April 21–27.

The New Hampshire Department of Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and the National Weather Service are using the week to provide daily guidance on how residents and visitors can prepare for the full range of weather threats—from floods and tornadoes to extreme heat and wildfires.

“New Hampshire is home to more severe weather than some people may realize,” said HSEM Director Robert Buxton. “This week is a perfect opportunity to revisit emergency plans and update emergency kits (as we transition into) the warmer months.”

High Fire Risk Despite April Showers

Despite recent rainfall, 72 percent of the state remains abnormally dry, setting the stage for a heightened risk of wildfires. Last year, New Hampshire saw a 24 percent increase in wildfires, according to a news release from the N.H. Department of Natural & Cultural Resources, with nearly double the acreage burned compared to 2023. Thirty-seven structures were threatened and four destroyed.

“Many homes in New Hampshire are located in what’s called ‘the wildland urban interface,’ or ‘WUI,’ which means they’re where homes and other structures are built in or near wildfire fuels like forests and fields,” said Chief Steven Sherman of the N.H. Forest Protection Bureau. “Wildfires burn more than just forests and fields, so it’s extra important to keep homes safe from wildfire by taking steps to keep that interface as safe as possible.”

Millions of visitors come to New Hampshire each year to enjoy the beauty of our forests for hiking, ATVs, camping and more, and our timber industry also plays a vital role in our state’s economic success,” said Gov. Ayotte.

Gov. Ayotte echoed that message: “Millions of visitors come to New Hampshire each year to enjoy the beauty of our forests for hiking, ATVs, camping and more, and our timber industry also plays a vital role in our state’s economic success,” she said. “Wildfire Awareness Week reminds us that we all have a role to play in protecting our state’s natural beauty and preventing wildfires.”

Fire Weather Outlook: Elevated Risk Through the Weekend

The extended fire weather forecast for Sullivan and much of the state shows increasingly dry and windy conditions—perfect ingredients for fire spread.

  • Tuesday–Thursday will bring mostly sunny skies, highs in the mid-60s, and gusty winds up to 35 mph. Humidity levels are expected to drop as low as 29 percent.

  • Friday and Saturday see a slight increase in humidity with some potential for showers, but gusts will continue to reach 35–45 mph.

  • Sunday will be sunny but breezy, with northwest gusts nearing 50 mph and relative humidity again dipping into the low 30s.

Under these conditions, officials warn that debris burning and other outdoor fires can quickly get out of control. State law requires anyone planning a fire—unless there’s snow on the ground—to first obtain a fire permit from their local fire department or online at nhfirepermit.com.

Know Before You Burn, and Prepare for the Unexpected

Forest fire wardens, local departments, and HSEM are encouraging Granite Staters to use this week as a reminder to stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.

For more information on severe weather safety, visit ReadyNH.gov. Wildfire prevention resources can be found at firewise.org.