PHOENIX (AZFamily) — New numbers from the Arizona Division of Forestry and Fire Management (AZSF) show wildfire activity is on an increase this year compared to 2023.
According to the ministry, the following happened:
1,515 wildfires have burned 1,246,966 acres since January
By comparison, in 2023, 1,389 wildfires burned across Arizona, burning 134,263 acres.
AZSF spokesperson Tiffany Davila said 67% of wildfires this year have been human-caused, and weather has also played a big role in this year's surge.
Davila said spring rains and dry summer weather had helped boost vegetation, but monsoon activity also had a lot to do with it.
“We've seen a lot of lightning-related fires in the state over the last month or so, which is a result of the monsoon,” Davila explained. “We've had a lot of dry thunderstorms, and no rain after the storms.”
Davila urges Arizonans to remain vigilant and cautious during this time of year in light of recent monsoon and microburst storms, which he said are impacting this year's wildfire forecast.
“This year the fires are expected to continue into October so residents are once again being reminded to remain vigilant,” she said. “Some areas are getting more rain, but many are not. A monsoon storm is on the way but it is not widespread.”
To prevent wildfires and protect your own home, be sure to remove any dry or dead plants from your yard. Davila also stressed keeping flammable items, like propane tanks or bags of mulch, away from your home.
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