Wildfires
Wildfires are one of the most destructive and fearsome natural disasters. They can whip up suddenly and spread with astonishing speed, devouring everything in their path.
Fanned by high winds, wildfires can quickly grow out of control, making them extremely difficult to fight. Firefighters often have to retreat and hope that the fire will eventually burn itself out.
Despite the dangers, wildfires play an important role in many ecosystems. They help clear out dead or diseased trees, clearing the way for new growth and creating habitat for a wide variety of animals.
Today, climate change is making wildfires even more dangerous, as rising temperatures and droughts create ideal conditions for large-scale blazes. As scientists work to find ways to better predict and prevent wildfires, it is crucial that we do everything we can to protect our communities and ecosystems from this destructive force.