Western Wildfires

Currently in Washington state, there is a wildfire that has spread to about three times the size of Seattle. As of this evening, only ten percent of the fire has been contained. The fire is still spreading and is anticipated to burn for several more months. So far, three firefighters have lost their lives fighting this wildfire and four have been injured.

Most states in the west experiencing these wildfires are recruiting volunteers, former firefighters, and construction workers. This year alone, 7.5 million acres have burned as a result of wildfires; which is about 2 million acres more than the average for this decade. Most of the wildfires are occurring in Idaho, with 17 wildfires currently burning. In Oregon, a wildfire has destroyed more than 36 homes, burned about 114 square miles, and it has only been 30 percent contained.

I am wondering what impact these wildfires have on our environment, considering the smoke and fumes that they release and the vast number of environmental resources they consume?


 (this is a photo of a wildfire that broke out on August 24, 2015, photo courtesy of Andrius Baskys)
Western Wildfire Article