Extended forecasts continue to predict a busy fire season as dry, warm weather settles in the area, and state officials and meteorologists warn of the ease in which a wildfire may be sparked in such conditions and the adverse effects high temperatures can have on vulnerable populations.
“Our firefighters are concerned that we may see more wildfires this week due to rising temperatures and higher wind speeds,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz, in a Department of Natural Resources press release. “With 71 percent of our state experiencing drought effects, and no rain forecasted, we all need to be extremely cautious when outdoors.”
The press release was distributed Monday, and warned of Wednesday’s temperatures that, in places, may hit 20 to 30 degrees higher than the average in Western counties.