The issue of wildfires and climate change are often discussed together, yet the impact we’re feeling today isn’t well understood by the average person. So, how exactly are the two intertwined? Let’s take a look.
Table of Contents
The Impact of Climate Change on Wildfires
Climate change has been linked to an increasing number of wildfires in many areas throughout the world. In the United States, the west coast states of California, Oregon and Washington have seen a notable increase in the frequency and intensity of wildfires.
Climate change increases the risk of wildfires by creating the perfect environment for them to thrive. Hotter temperatures and extreme droughts create a more arid environment, which are conditions favorable to wildfires. This is especially true when combined with higher than normal wind speeds.
The more arid environment caused by climate change leads to less moisture in the soil, making it easier for fire to spread. Climate change also contributes to an increase in the size and quantity of dead vegetation, which serves as fuel for the fire.
The Economic Impacts of Wildfires and Climate Change
The impact of wildfires goes beyond just the direct costs of fighting the fire. The economic impacts from the destruction of homes, businesses and infrastructure can be severe and long lasting.
In the United States, 2006-2015 saw an estimated $51 billion in private property losses caused by wildfires in the western states. This total doesn’t take into account other indirect costs associated with the fires, such as displacement of people and interruption of business activities.
Wildfires also have a significant impact on the environment. Smoke from the fires has been linked to health problems, including increased rates of respiratory ailments. Air quality is also affected, with smoke causing hazardous pollutants to enter the air. This can lead to a reduction in air quality for miles around the fire.
Reducing the Risk of Wildfires
The connection between wildfires and climate change means that reducing the risk of wildfires requires action to mitigate the effects of climate change. This means transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions.
It’s also important to have prevention measures in place. This includes better management of woodlands and grasslands and land use planning to reduce the risk of fires starting and spreading.
Making homes more fire resilient can also help reduce the risk of damage from fires. One way to do this is to use fireproof building materials and to harden the home by using fire resistant landscaping. Properly maintaining woodlands and grasslands near homes is also important, as is being aware of the risk posed by power lines and other infrastructure.
Conclusion
Wildfires will continue to be a major issue among many others, such as rising sea levels from climate change, but there are measures we can take to reduce the risk of both starting fires and reducing the damage caused by them.
Enhancing fire preventative measures, transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions, hardening homes, maintaining woodlands near homes and being aware of the risk posed by power lines are all measures we can take to reduce the risk of wildfires. Taking the time to understand the risks posed by climate change and the wildfire danger it increases our ability to take the steps necessary to protect ourselves and our communities.