Forest fires spread in warming climate

Wildfires around the world are continuing to grow in number and frequency as drought and manmade influence grows.

Two reports, the first from the UN and a second led by the University of Colorado Boulder, combine for a grim view of the future of wildfires.

Over the next 28 years, the rate of fires is forecast to jump by 30%. This includes impacting new, previously untouched, regions such as the Arctic tundra.

Meanwhile, as climate change builds and night times warm there will be no break in conditions likely to lead to fires.

Previously, cooler night time temperatures had allowed for firefighters to tackle harsh flames. Researchers now say that night temperatures are rising at a faster rate than day time temperatures with a 36% rise in after-dark conditions warm enough to maintain wildfires.

Fighting wildfires is costly, both financially and in the number of emergency services needed. In the US, where much of the west coast has seen extensive fires amid severe drought, an estimated $3.1 billion was spent on tackling the issue in 2021.

Australia, Siberia, western America, and southern Europe have seen extensive wildfire damage in recent years, with extreme heatwaves contributing to the situation.

In their report, the UN say nations should prioritise prevention and preparedness resources by allocating 45% of total budgets towards the two. Followed by response resources, for example firefighters, and then recovery.

The report says that many countries currently prioritise the response resources without tackling the root of the cause.