Rising temperatures prime our state for larger, more intense wildfires
Warmer and drier summer conditions mean increased wildfire risk and current climate change modeling indicates these conditions are likely to become the norm in the decades ahead.
Rising temperatures, more frequent and longer lasting heat waves, and drier summers are expected to contribute to larger, more severe wildfires. Climate scientists project the area burned by fire in the Northwest may reach 1.1 million acres per year by the 2040s. This puts both Washington’s air quality and forestlands at risk.
Wildfires threaten health, economy, and environment
As the frequency and intensity of wildfires increase so do their impacts. Wildfires:
- Cause unhealthy levels of air quality that creates respiratory problems for some people.
- Threaten homes, property, and agriculture.
- Destroy forestland and its resources.
- Damage habitat for wildlife.
We are monitoring air quality
Reducing and preparing for climate impacts, including wildfire, is one of our priorities. We use air monitors around the state to track air quality. Our network of monitors operate year round measuring air pollution. During wildfires we often add more monitors. Visit our air monitoring page to view air quality levels in your community.