Rochester Firefighters Contain 1.6-Acre Woods Fire Behind Mandela Drive

ROCHESTER, N.H. – The Rochester Fire Department contained a 1.6-acre brush and woods fire behind Mandela Drive on Thursday, August 14, 2025, after a six-hour operation involving multiple units.

Fire officials said the blaze was discovered using a drone after reports of smoke in the Heritage/Chamberlain area the previous evening yielded no findings. The fire was located deep in the woods on private property and was not visible from fire towers or detected by aircraft using nearby Skyhaven Airport.

Crews stretched more than 550 feet of hose into the woods, breaking it into four additional lines to reach the fire. Over 15,000 gallons of water were used to bring the blaze under control by 4:00 p.m. No civilian or emergency personnel injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined but is not considered suspicious. Damage is estimated at under $5,000. Officials believe the fire may have been burning for several days before it was noticed, citing very dry conditions in the area.

The Rochester Fire Department is reminding residents that no outdoor burning is permitted until significant rainfall occurs and urges the public to report any signs of outdoor fire or smoke immediately.

Credit: Rochester Fire Department