Los Angeles has been devastated by several wildfires that continue to burn, with firefighters tackling hurricane force winds to try and bring them under control. The death toll currently stands at 27 people; however, this is expected to rise over the coming weeks. 12,000 structures have been affected and the burned area spans over 60 square miles. The visuals of dry brush, orange glowing hills and thick clouds of smoke seems a far cry from the chilly weather we have been experiencing here in the UK, however, we have our own history of wildfires.
In 2019, a series of wildfires began on 26th February and continued until 18th May, caused by the higher than average temperatures and drought conditions that had lingered from the Spring of 2018. In total, the burned area spanned approximately 72,000 acres of land. 2022 saw the joint hottest summer on record and, as a result, exceptional figures for the number of outdoor fires occurring. In July and August 2022, 43,754 outdoor fires occurred, which was a four-fold increase in the same period from the year prior.
Whilst weather plays a large role in the spread of wildfires, they are often caused by human activities, such as discarded cigarettes, campfires, and arson. Between 1992 and 2012, 84% of all U.S wildfires were caused by human activities. Fortunately, wildfires in the UK are typically controlled by the Fire and Rescue Service promptly, limiting the damage they can cause to property and livelihoods. However, as always, prevention is better than cure.