THEMARICOPAMOD.COM / WEATHER & ENVIRONMENT

Arizona wildfires: How humans and weather patterns have sparked an increase this year

Davila highlighted that approximately 67% of wildfires in Arizona are caused by human activity.

PUBLISHED AUG 14, 2024

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautions to prevent wildfires.

Phoenix, Arizona: Arizona is experiencing a significant increase in wildfire activity this year, according to the State Forestry and Fire Management Department. As of now, the state has recorded 1,515 wildfires since January 1, burning nearly 247,000 acres. This marks a sharp rise compared to last year, when 1,389 wildfires burned a total of 134,263 acres.

The dry and windy conditions prevalent during the season have exacerbated the fire risk across the region.

Why has there been a spike in wildfires?

State officials cite several factors contributing to the heightened wildfire activity. Weather conditions have played a major role, with spring showers leading to increased vegetation growth, followed by dry summer conditions that create ideal fire conditions. Additionally, recent active monsoon activity has extended the fire season into October, making this year particularly challenging.

Tiffany Davila, a spokesperson for State Forestry, said that recent rains had not been widespread across the state, leaving some areas still vulnerable to wildfires.

Tiffany Davila, a spokesperson for State Forestry, emphasized that despite monsoon storms, the resulting rainfall has not been widespread across the state, leaving some areas still vulnerable to wildfires.

Davila also highlighted that approximately 67% of wildfires in Arizona are caused by human activity. She urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautions to prevent wildfires, especially during this extended fire season.

Here's what YOU can do to help officials fighting wildfires

Avoid parking your vehicle on dry grass or driving through tall grass because heat from the underside of your vehicle can start a fire.

Never throw a lit cigarette out of a vehicle.

Make sure trailer chains are securely attached. Loose chains can drag on the pavement, shooting sparks off the road and into dry brush and grass.

Check tire pressure before you travel. Exposed wheel rims can cause sparks on the asphalt.

Be patient and be prepared. If you are waiting in a backup on a highway that is closed stay in your lane and do not exit your vehicle. Do not drive onto the shoulders of the highway as first responders use that lane.