"The Luna fire’s rapid expansion to over 8,500 acres and sustained moderate behavior, combined with significant personnel deployment, highlight its potential impact on local communities and ecosystems. Its growth trajectory and containment challenges underscore the need for continued monitoring and resource allocation."
The Luna wildfire, located 10 miles north of Newhalem in Whatcom County, Washington, was first discovered on July 2, 2026. The National Park Service (NPS) is the jurisdictional agency, and the fire is of natural origin. Over the course of the timeline, the fire expanded from 1,390 acres on August 6 to a peak of 8,553 acres on September 23, with containment remaining at 0% until August 27 when it reached 31% and later fluctuating between 27% and 53% containment. Fire behavior evolved from active, single‑tree torching and uphill runs to moderate, flanking, backing, and creeping activity as the fire grew and resources were deployed, with personnel ranging from 1 to 87. The incident has grown rapidly, reaching over 8,500 acres and sustaining moderate fire behavior for several weeks, indicating a persistent threat to surrounding areas. Preparedness advice: Residents and visitors in the vicinity should remain vigilant for changing fire conditions, stay informed through official channels, and be prepared to evacuate if authorities issue orders. General wildfire safety guidance applies, including securing flammable materials and maintaining safe distances from the fire perimeter.
Official source description: 10 Miles N from Newhalem, WA
Moderate; Backing; Flanking; Creeping
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Darrington. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
Residents near the fire should stay alert to official updates, maintain safe distances from the perimeter, and be ready to evacuate if instructed. General wildfire safety practices—such as securing combustible materials and avoiding outdoor activities near the fire—remain essential.
IRWIN ID: {7D70E58C-3570-466C-86F7-8E5F828D0F7F}
Discovered: Jul 2, 2026
Cause: Natural
Managing Agency: NPS
Est. Cost to Date: $3,071,859
Coordinates: 48.8211, -121.2097
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in WA.
The Luna Fire has burned 8,553 acres as of September 23, 2026.
As of the latest update, the Luna Fire is 42% contained.
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The Luna Fire is burning in Whatcom, WA.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Luna Fire remains active.
Real-time map, acreage, and containment for every major U.S. wildfire, updated from official NIFC data.
View Live Map →