Utah's wildfire season has been bad, not for the reasons you think

Utah

Utah has reported a decrease in the number of wildfires compared to the previous year, with 760 incidents so far, down from 876. Despite this reduction, the total acreage burned has increased, largely due to more fires being started by human activity. According to the Utah Division of Forestry, 71% of wildfires this year have been caused by non-natural sources, up from 57% last year.

Emergency officials highlight that extremely dry conditions, especially in southern Utah, combined with low humidity, wind, and heat, have created an environment where even small sparks can quickly escalate into large fires. Residents are advised to clear brush around homes and prepare emergency plans, including provisions for pets, as fire danger remains elevated.

Surprising reasons why Utah's wildfire season has been bad

The numbers bear out that there have been fewer wildfires, but more acres have burned. There have been 760 wildfires in Utah this year, that's down from 876 the same point a year ago. The Utah Division of Forestry says that there's an increase this year in the number of wildfires that were human-caused. There has been an uptick this year in the number of fires that have been human-caused. 71% of wildfires statewide have been caused by non-natural causes. That's compared to 57% last year. Jason Bradley, the Emergency Services Manager here in Washington County, told me that conditions are ripe for any spark to become an inferno. Right now, we're just in such a dry, dry situation, really across the state, but southern Utah especially. Anytime you have such, such low humidity, wind, and heat, the chances of ignition on any type of, whether it's a spark or a firework or whatever, is almost 100%, not quite. And so the risk of fire is just outrageous. And right now, that's why we're seeing so much fire and really extreme fire behavior. Bradley told me there's an elevated fire danger statewide for the rest of the week. Homeowners near areas with brush or fire fuels should clear at least 100 feet of it around their homes. And always have a go bag at the ready if there's a need for a quick escape. And don't forget to plan for those pets. Washington County and the websites for other localities can show you how to do that. From St. George, Chris Reed, Fox 13 News, Utah.

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