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In 2020, the state of California experienced its worst
wildfire season on record, with the Bay Area fire becoming one
of the largest wildfires in American history. By the end of the
year, the state recorded more than 8,600 blazes that burned down
over 4 million acres of land, accounting for more than 4% of the
state’s total land area.
California is known for its wildfire seasons, which usually
take place between late summer and early autumn, though they
have been getting significantly more intense, destructive, and
longer in the past two decades. At least one-third of the worst
wildfires in USA (United States of America) history occurred in
California. But what causes California such susceptibility to
wildfires in the first place and what is causing the exacerbation
of it?
Wildfires can occur naturally and as a result of human
activity, but three elements must be present for a wildfire to start.
Fuel: Any flammable material surrounding a fire, which can
come in the form of live or dead trees, dry vegetation, and other
organic matter; Air: An abundance of oxygen supply. Heat
sources: to ignite and burn the fuel. This could take the form of
lightning strikes or human sources such as campfires or
cigarettes.
Natural wildfires, which are classified as natural disasters
by the Environmental Protection Agency, can start during low
precipitation, dry weather and droughts. During these conditions,
dry vegetation becomes the perfect fuel for wildfires and when
lightning strikes, it ignites a fire that can spread rapidly with the
aid of strong winds and elevated temperatures.
Internet: <earth.org> (adapted).