NORFOLK, Va. — With much of the country currently experiencing drought conditions, the threat of wildfires is increasing across the United States.
We’ve already seen wildfires flare up in the west, and recently, New Jersey has seen an increase in wildfire activity. Without substantial rainfall, the threat of wildfires will continue to grow.
A long-term drought, or even a flash drought like we have seen develop regionally, can exacerbate wildfire conditions.
That means an abundance of dry vegetation and low humidity. Add in the fall fronts that bring increasing wind, and you have the ideal conditions for wildfires to develop and spread.
For a wildfire to start, you need a heat source, fuel, and oxygen. Obviously, there is plenty of oxygen in our atmosphere. And a drought will provide the fuel: brush, dry grass, and trees. As for a heat source, that can be man-made, such as a discarded cigarette or sparking power line.
Many times, however, it’s lightning from a dry thunderstorm that provides the spark needed to ignite a wildfire. A dry thunderstorm is a thunderstorm that produces thunder and lightning, but little to no rain reaches the ground. Winds then fan the flames and spread the embers, causing the wildfire to grow.
During a wildfire, listen to emergency management officials and stay informed of the status of the fire. Be prepared to evacuate, if necessary.
Many of us here in Hampton Roads have a hurricane emergency kit. Keep that kit stocked all year, and you will have those items handy in the event you need to evacuate quickly.