English: The 2022 Kimble Complex Fire was the largest wildfire in Wayne National Forest history. It started out as several smaller wildfires on a day with enhanced fire weather conditions, grew into a single large wildfire, and then blew up in size as fire weather conditions worsened. By the end, it burned 1,338 acres and took dozens of wildland firefighters, multiple fire engines, dozers, and more to contain. The cause of the wildfire remains under investigation.

The Kimble Complex Fire came on the heels of dozens of small and medium size wildfires that occurred throughout southeast Ohio during the fall fire season. Between October 8 and November 22, our wildland firefighters responded to an average of 1.5 wildfires a day.

We rely on you to be fire aware and help prevent wildfires in the first place! Know your state and local fire laws, follow the statewide 6 AM to 6 PM burn bans during the spring and fall fire seasons, never leave fires unattended, and always put fires completely out until they are cool to the touch. Remember, only YOU can help prevent wildfires!

Forest Service photo by Spencer Townsend.