Wildfires are among nature’s most devastating forces, causing massive destruction to lives, properties, and ecosystems. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 deadliest wildfires in U.S. history, listed in a data analysis provided by law firm Singleton Schreiber, along with some crucial safety tips to protect yourself in the event of a wildfire.
1. Peshtigo Fire (1871) – Wisconsin
The Peshtigo Fire remains the deadliest wildfire in U.S. history, with 1,152 fatalities. Occurring on the same day as the Great Chicago Fire, it burned over 1.2 million acres in northeastern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. Intense winds caused the fire to create a “firestorm,” which leveled entire towns. Many victims were trapped by the flames or drowned trying to escape across rivers.
2. Cloquet & Moose Lake Fires (1918) – Minnesota & Wisconsin
These fires, driven by dry conditions and strong winds, swept through northeastern Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin, killing 453 people and leaving thousands homeless. More than 1,000 square miles were burned, destroying entire communities in hours.
3. Great Hinckley Fire (1894) – Minnesota
This fire, which burned through Pine County, Minnesota, killed 418 people and covered 200,000 acres. Intense heat caused trees to explode, and the fire traveled at lightning speeds. Many survivors only managed to escape by boarding trains that fled the burning areas.
4. Thumb Fire (1881) – Michigan
The Thumb Fire in Michigan’s “Thumb” region killed 282 people and devastated over a million acres of forest and farmland. It was sparked by drought conditions and strong winds. Many residents were caught off-guard, and a lack of fire prevention knowledge worsened the impact.
5. Lahaina Fire (2023) – Hawaii
One of the most recent deadly wildfires, the Lahaina Fire claimed 101 lives. The fire was fanned by hurricane winds, rapidly engulfing the historic town of Lahaina on the island of Maui. Despite evacuation efforts, the fire spread quickly, leaving little time for residents to escape.
6. Great Fire of 1910 – Idaho & Montana
Known as the “Big Blowup,” this fire burned 3 million acres across Idaho and Montana, killing 87 people, including 78 firefighters. Dry conditions and fierce winds turned the blaze into an uncontrollable inferno. It forever changed U.S. fire policy, leading to the establishment of modern fire suppression tactics.
7. Camp Fire (2018) – California
The Camp Fire is California’s deadliest wildfire, with 85 lives lost. It started due to faulty electrical transmission lines and quickly engulfed the town of Paradise. The fire destroyed over 18,000 structures and burned 153,000 acres. Many victims were trapped in their cars trying to flee.
8. Yacolt Burn (1902) – Washington & Oregon
The Yacolt Burn consumed over 500,000 acres of forest in Washington and Oregon, killing 65 people. The fire was fueled by logging operations and dry summer conditions, making it one of the most destructive wildfires in the Pacific Northwest.
9. 2017 October Fire Siege – California
During the October 2017 wildfires, several fires burned simultaneously across Northern California, killing 44 people and destroying thousands of homes. The fires were driven by strong Diablo winds, which spread the flames rapidly across Sonoma, Napa, and other counties.
10. 2020 Fire Siege – California
The 2020 California wildfire season was one of the most destructive in history. Thirty-one people lost their lives as millions of acres were burned across the state. Lightning storms, dry conditions, and strong winds created the perfect conditions for these devastating fires.
What to Do in the Event of a Wildfire
If you live in a wildfire-prone area or are caught in a wildfire, taking immediate action can save your life. Here’s what to do:
Prepare Ahead of Time
- Create a Defensible Space: Clear flammable vegetation around your home and use fire-resistant materials for construction.
- Develop an Emergency Plan: Ensure all family members know the evacuation routes, and pack a go-bag with essential supplies, including medications, documents, and protective gear.
During a Wildfire
- Evacuate Early: If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. Don’t wait for the fire to get closer.
- Keep Informed: Use local radio, TV, or text alerts for real-time updates on fire movement and evacuation routes.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, pants, goggles, and masks help protect from heat, smoke, and embers.
- Close Windows and Doors: If sheltering indoors, seal windows, doors, and vents to minimize smoke inhalation.
In the Car
- Don’t Outrun the Fire: If the fire is nearby, pull over in an area clear of vegetation. Stay in your vehicle, cover yourself with a blanket, and lie on the floor to avoid radiant heat.
- Turn Off Ventilation: Keep vents closed to prevent smoke from entering the vehicle.
After the Fire
- Wait for Official Clearance: Only return home once authorities declare it safe to do so.
- Check for Hot Spots: Smoldering debris can reignite. Walk around your home and extinguish any embers.
- Seek Medical Attention: If exposed to heavy smoke, monitor for respiratory issues and seek help if needed.
Conservation Efforts After the Fire
After the wildfire has been contained, focus shifts to rebuilding and restoring the land. Conservation efforts include:
- Soil Stabilization: Replanting native species and spreading mulch to prevent erosion.
- Water Quality Protection: Installing barriers and using erosion control techniques to keep ash and debris from contaminating waterways.
- Habitat Restoration: Reintroducing native plants and protecting wildlife habitats to allow ecosystems to recover.
- Community Rebuilding: Working with local authorities and environmental groups to restore fire-affected areas.
By supporting conservation efforts, you can help communities recover faster and reduce the long-term environmental impact of wildfires.
Wildfires are dangerous and unpredictable, but with preparation and timely response, you can improve your chances of surviving and minimizing damage. Stay aware of local fire risks, and always be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice.