California and the western United States are preparing for what could be a severe wildfire season later this year. The region is still recovering from devastating wildfires in January and is facing extreme dryness that extended deep into winter. According to meteorologist Matt Shameson from the U.S. Forest Service in Riverside, “We have a lot of fuels out there in every category,” indicating a high risk of fires in the coming months.
The rainy season is ending, but much of the West remains behind on rainfall. The Southwest is experiencing deep drought conditions after missing out on winter storms. Forecasts predict unusually hot and dry weather in the coming weeks, which, combined with increased fire-fueling vegetation, could lead to a significant wildfire season. This is a concern even for areas that received adequate rain and snow this winter.
A heat wave is building, with record-breaking temperatures expected in parts of California and the Southwest. Recent seasonal outlooks show warm and dry conditions centered over the Southwest this spring, expanding into the summer. These conditions are exacerbated by a weakening La Niña, which typically results in dry weather for Southern California and the Southwest.
The warmth could trigger rapid snowmelt and more intense wildfires. According to The Spokesman-Review, April is critical for precipitation, determining vegetation growth and its potential to become fuel for fires. Leslie Roche, a plant science professor at the University of California, Davis, noted that if rains stop, grasses will grow quickly, set seed, and die, creating dry fuel that exacerbates wildfire severity and spread.
The northern third of California, which had a wet winter, also faces a higher wildfire risk this summer. The Pacific Northwest, despite spring storms and flooding, could still see a busy fire season. The Washington Post reports that the Southwest has had little precipitation for months, with drought tightening its grip over several states.
As the region braces for the upcoming fire season, experts continue to monitor weather patterns and prepare for potential late-season storm events that could mitigate some fire risks. However, the overall outlook remains concerning, with high fire potential expected across the western United States.
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