US wildfires are measured in acres, with megafires exceeding 100,000 acres. Containment levels indicate firefighters' progress in controlling the spread. Evacuation warnings and orders are issued based on imminent danger. Red flag warnings signal high wildfire risk due to weather conditions. Prescribed burns, intentionally set fires, help manage landscapes and reduce future wildfire risks, a practice revived after a period of suppression.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.