Wildfires are sparking all over. They started on the West Coast and are now on the East Coast. Frontline Wildfire Defense’s website says that 85-90% of wildfires have human involvement. For a wildfire to grow and move, they need three main things: heat, oxygen, and fuel. Heat comes from humans, or sometimes it is natural. The fuel comes from all the debris. Houses, farms, and dry land are some examples. The oxygen is in the air. In California, where the West Coast Fires are, the average wind speed is 45-50 miles per hour but can go up to 160 miles per hour.
Usually, when wildfires are brought up, we think of the West Coast. Currently, the Northeastern Coast is in flames. National Geographic’s website states that more than 100 fires have been in North and South Carolina. The wind conditions have been dry and windy. Although, the fires aren’t as bad as the West Coast Fires.
“56% of the U.S. population lives in the eastern and southern regions of the country, compared to just 24% in the West,” Sarah Novak on the National Geographic website.
It is still a concern in the West, but the population is fewer than on the East Coast. Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida have a new invasive species called Cogongrass. It is a perennial weed. Once the fire ignites, it continues to burn faster and hotter. It can regrow quickly too unlike other invasive species.
Another cause of the fires is climate change. Going back to the dryness, climate change just adds to this factor. Climate change can be caused by human activities too.
Pennsylvania, entering Spring, is highly aware of wildfires. Spring months, March, April, and May are of high risk. The autumn months are as well. 99% of fires started in Pennsylvania are caused by humans. Freedom has a minor wind factor which can fuel wildfires, and a moderate risk for heat. Due to climate change, Freedom will experience seven hot days this year and in the next 30 years, 17 days.
Wildfires have many causes to start, but the two main factors are human activity and climate change. Pennsylvania is currently aware of the fires much like other East Coast states.
