The Largest Wildfire in World History Burned 15% of a Continent

May Be Interested In:Federal government commits $187M to rebuild critical infrastructure in Jasper



The New South Wales Bushfires scorched 289 million acres (117 million hectares) in Australia. John Crux Photography / Getty Images

Wildfires have shaped landscapes, ecosystems and human history for centuries. Some of the deadliest wildfires have burned across millions of acres, leaving behind devastation and reshaping the way we manage fire-prone environments.

The most devastating wildfires have been fueled by dry conditions, lightning strikes, and strong winds, leading to some of the most destructive wildfires on record.

The following list chronicles the 15 largest wildfires in world history, ranked by area burned. Each entry provides insight into the scale and impact of these devastating wildfires.

share Share facebook pinterest whatsapp x print

Similar Content

Panicked Democratic voters are turning on their own leaders
Panicked Democratic voters are turning on their own leaders
Washington Capitals goaltender Charlie Lindgren (79) plays during an NHL hockey game, Feb. 23, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, File)
Capitals sign goaltender Charlie Lindgren to a 3-year, $9 million extension
Fossils reveal what the fur of early mammals looked like
Fossils reveal what the fur of early mammals looked like
Selena Gomez, 32, turned up the heat as she posed topless with fiancé Benny Blanco, 36, in new cover photos for Interview Magazine's March 2025 issue
Selena Gomez poses TOPLESS with fiancé Benny Blanco as they talk love and being engaged for first joint interview
LANL punts system to ID satellites at risk of collision
LANL punts system to ID satellites at risk of collision
English Teacher and charities warn of youth music funding crisis
English Teacher and charities warn of youth music funding crisis

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The Big Story: What’s Captivating the World Today | © 2025 | Daily News