"This incident is notable for its early-stage expansion to 78 acres within the same day, indicating a potential for rapid growth if conditions change, and for the resources that may be mobilized by the U.S. Forest Service to address it."
The Widow wildfire was discovered on August 21, 2026, at 05:01 UTC in Jones County, Mississippi, and is currently active under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service. As of the latest update at 15:00 UTC, the fire has burned 78 acres with no containment reported and no specific fire behavior or weather conditions documented. The cause remains undetermined. With no additional timeline entries, the situation has not yet shown growth or containment progress beyond the initial 78‑acre burn.
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Hattiesburg. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
General wildfire safety guidance applies: stay informed through local authorities, avoid the area, and be prepared to evacuate if instructed.
IRWIN ID: {57D0C6A5-70E0-42EC-8693-C8BF225FFCD5}
Discovered: Aug 21, 2026
Cause: Undetermined
Managing Agency: USFS
Coordinates: 31.574, -89.0317
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in MS.
The Widow Fire has burned 78 acres as of August 21, 2026.
The Widow Fire has not yet reached any official containment.
The official cause has been listed as: Undetermined.
The Widow Fire is burning in Jones, MS.
No, the Widow Fire is no longer listed as active by NIFC.
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