Wild River Fire grows to 378 acres near Gorham

A wildfire burning in the Coos County forest has expanded to approximately 378 acres, according to the latest update from fire officials. The blaze is located about seven miles southeast of Gorham, New Hampshire, in the Wild River drainage. It sits roughly one mile west of the border with Maine.

The fire was first reported on Sunday afternoon, November 1. As of the latest release, crews have secured 11% of the perimeter. Moderate growth occurred on Monday as personnel built and secured fire lines to confine the spreading flames.

More than 50 fire personnel are currently assigned to the incident. The terrain is steep, rugged, and heavily forested, which dictates the suppression strategies used to ensure firefighter safety. The fire is actively burning through timber, snags, and leaf litter. While a drought persists in the area, higher humidity is expected today, which should help limit the spread of the fire.

Aerial resources, including a helicopter and a drone, are supporting reconnaissance and suppression efforts. Officials remind the public that unauthorized unmanned aerial systems can endanger pilots and firefighters on the ground. Drivers should avoid flying drones over or near the fire area.

Smoke may be visible in the surrounding region. If drivers encounter smoke on the road, they should slow down and turn on their headlights. Smoke information is available at www.fire.airnow.gov. The cause of the Wild River Fire remains under investigation.

There are presently no significant threats to life or property in the immediate area. The Forest Service continues to manage the response, utilizing aerial and ground units to monitor the fire's behavior in the remote woodland.