More Than 50 Personnel Work to Suppress Wild River Fire

Gorham, N.H. — November 3, 2026 — Fire crews kept battling the White Mountain National Forest blaze, which had expanded to around 378 acres and was reported at 11% contained, the Forest Service noted. 

The fire burns in Coos County, roughly seven miles southeast of Gorham and about one mile west of the New Hampshire-Maine border, within the Wild River drainage. Sunday afternoon, November 1, marked the first report of this event. The cause is still being investigated, and officials stated there were no major threats to life or property when the material was released. 

Firefighters reported moderate growth on Monday as crews built and secured fire lines. The fire is burning in timber, standing dead trees and leaf litter. Crews are working in steep, rugged and forested terrain, with suppression plans focused on firefighter safety while limiting the fire’s spread.

More than 50 personnel were assigned to the incident as of November 3. A helicopter and drone were supporting reconnaissance and suppression operations. The Forest Service said higher humidity was expected to help limit fire spread, although drought conditions persisted across the region.

Smoke may be visible in surrounding communities. Motorists who encounter smoke should slow down and turn on their headlights. The Forest Service also warned that unauthorized drones near the fire could endanger pilots and firefighters.\

The Forest Service provided the briefing and photographs for the incident. Residents and visitors may notice haze or a campfire smell in the area as crews continue suppression work