11/05/2026
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Gorham, NH, November 5, 2026. Firefighters continue to make steady progress on suppression efforts as crews hold and strengthen containment lines around the fire. Updated mapping has resulted in a reduction in the reported acreage; the Wild River Fire is currently 856 acres. With no season-ending rain event currently forecast and previously anticipated precipitation failing to materialize in some areas, additional resources are arriving to support suppression operations., “I am proud of the firefighters who responded quickly and continue to work tirelessly to contain the Wild River Fire,” noted Josh Sjostrom, District Ranger for the White Mountain National Forest’s Androscoggin Ranger District. “We will continue to work with our neighbors, and local and state partners to contain this fire.”
Operational tactics remain flexible and are adapted to current conditions. Multiple aviation assets will be utilized to moderate fire spread near the head of the fire and suppress any known or potential fire spots. During periods of higher humidity and favorable weather, firefighters may take advantage of opportunities to conduct direct attack operations, working directly along the fire's edge to strengthen containment and extinguish active fire. Today, firefighters are expected to begin mop-up activities in select areas where containment objectives have been achieved. Mop-up will extinguish lingering heat sources near containment lines, including smoldering vegetation, logs, roots, and other materials that could reignite and threaten established control lines. This critical phase of suppression helps secure fire perimeters, reduce the likelihood of flare-ups, and move the incident closer to full containment.
Public and firefighter safety remain the highest priorities throughout the incident. Suppression operations are being conducted with careful consideration for the challenging conditions firefighters face on the ground. Steep, rocky terrain continues to present hazards for crews working in remote areas, while recent wet conditions and the flashy nature of the nearby Wild River require ongoing assessment to ensure operational decisions prioritize safety.
Community members are invited to attend a public meeting today to receive the latest information on the Wild River Fire. The meeting will be held from 6:00-7:00 p.m. on November 5 at the Shelburne Town Hall, located at 74 Village Road in Shelburne, New Hampshire. Attendees interested in joining the meeting online, please join via the following link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/278048261366254?p=eu2mTEqq60Wt7wFwBS
Firefighters appreciate the public's continued support and cooperation as they work to contain the fire safely, protect surrounding communities and landscapes, and keep the incident within its current footprint.
