The Fossil Fuels Behind Forest Fires
May 2023
K. Dahl, et al (Union of Concerned Scientists
The article from the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) highlights the link between fossil fuels and forest fires, emphasizing that the extraction, production, and use of these fuels contribute to climate change and the conditions that increase the risk and severity of wildfires. It underscores the importance of transitioning to cleaner energy sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the underlying factors driving these fires. Click here
Almost 40% of land burned by western wildfires can be traced to carbon emissions
May 2023
Alex Wigglesworth (L.A.Times)
The article from Yahoo News reports that nearly 40% of the land in the western United States has been affected by wildfires. The information is based on data from the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). The article highlights the extent of the damage caused by the fires, which have ravaged vast areas and resulted in significant ecological and environmental consequences.
The article points out that the western states have experienced prolonged drought conditions, which have contributed to the increased risk and severity of wildfires. It also mentions that climate change plays a role in exacerbating these conditions, as rising temperatures and changing weather patterns create a more conducive environment for fires to spread rapidly. Click here
Explainer: How climate change is increasing the risk of wildfires.
July 2020
Daisy Dunne (CarbonBrief)
The article from Carbon Brief provides an explanation of how climate change is influencing wildfires globally. It discusses the various ways in which rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and other climate-related factors contribute to the increased frequency and severity of wildfires.
The article highlights the relationship between rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and the increased frequency and severity of wildfires. The article acknowledges the complex nature of wildfires and the importance of considering various factors, including climate change, to understand and address this growing issue. Click here
The Impact of Climate Change on Wildfire Severity: A Regional Forecast for Northern California
January 2004
J. Fried, E. Mills (Climate Change)
This scientific study reviews and synthesizes existing research on the connection between climate change and wildfire severity. Including climatic change resulting in more frequent and more intense fires in northern California where escape frequencies increased by more than 100%, based on relatively conservative general circulation models (GCM) output and despite more extensive utilization of available firefighting forces.
The greatest increases in fire spread rates and area burned occur in landscapes dominated by grass and brush. Only 9 of the 114 additional escapes occur in high population areas due to the greater depth of fire suppression resources available. Click here
Attribution of the Influence of Human-Induced Climate Change on an Extreme Fire Season
January 2019
M.C. Kirchmeier-Young, N., Gillett, et all (Advancing Earth and Science)
This research paper examines the influence of anthropogenic climate change on a specific extreme fire season, providing evidence of its contribution to the severity of the fires. Click here
Megafires — The Growing Risk to America’s Forests, Communities, and Wildlife
October 2017
C. Skeens (National Wildlife Foundation)
The article from the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) announces the release of a report on the increasing prevalence and severity of "megafires" in the United States. It underscores the role of climate change and forest management practices in fueling these fires and emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate their impacts. Click here
