Wildfire in White Mountain National Forest grows to more than 375 acres
Wildfire Near Maine Border Rises to 378 Acres, 11 % Contained
A wildfire that ignited near the Maine‑New Hampshire border has grown to more than 378 acres, the U.S. Forest Service reported Tuesday. The blaze, named the Wild River Fire, is located in the White Mountain National Forest’s Coos County, about seven miles southeast of Gorham, New Hampshire, on the northwest side of the Wild River and west of Mount Hastings in Maine’s Oxford County.
The Forest Service first dispatched crews to the spot at roughly 1 p.m. on Sunday, November 1. By Monday, the fire’s estimated size was around 300 acres. As of Tuesday, the fire had expanded to 378 acres and was 11 % contained. The cause remains under investigation.
Response Efforts and Challenges
Sarah Hankens, a spokesperson for the Forest Service’s White Mountain office, said the agency’s presence grew from 40 firefighters on Monday to 50 on Tuesday. “We’re using helicopters and drones in addition to ground crews to battle the fire,” Hankens explained. The terrain is difficult, she added, and although higher humidity is expected later in the week, the region remains in a drought‑affected state.
Despite its size, the blaze poses no immediate threat to people or property. However, the smoke has already begun to affect visibility on nearby roads. Hankens advised motorists encountering reduced visibility to slow down and use headlights. “We’re not seeing any direct danger to the community, but the smoke is a concern,” she said.
Public Information and Tracking
The Forest Service maintains an AirNow Fire and Smoke Map that allows residents and travelers to monitor the fire’s progression and smoke coverage. The map is a joint effort between the Forest Service and the U.S. Department of Environmental Protection.
The Wild River Fire’s continued growth underscores the region’s ongoing wildfire risk. While containment remains low, the use of aerial support and the expected increase in humidity may help limit further spread. Local authorities remain vigilant, and residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels.
