Wildfire seasons are set to become longer and expand to different parts of the world due to global warming, placing ecosystems at risk and driving many species toward extinction, suggests a new study.

The research published in Nature Climate Change shows that as a consequence of warming and altered climate patterns, the landscape is becoming increasingly arid and combustible, enabling easier ignition and prolonged combustion of fires.

What is happening to wildfires

Previously, the fire seasons were associated with certain times when temperatures, dry conditions, and lightning storms occurred. However, these trends are changing.

Scientists discovered that fires have started appearing in places near the poles and regions where fires had never occurred before. Some areas could even experience twice the duration of fire seasons by the end of the century in moderate warming conditions.

Overall, the total area of wildfires around the globe could grow by roughly 9%, and the fire seasons could become extended by almost 23%.

Reasons why climate change leads to an increase in forest fires

Increased global warming causes drought in plants and soils, making it easier for fires to begin and spread.

Warm weather means early melting of snow and extended dry seasons, which increases the duration of potential fires.

Climate change could cause some areas to become drier than previously thought, causing fires.

Effect on flora and fauna

The study shows that about 84% of flora and fauna that are threatened by forest fires could experience higher risks in the coming years.

Fauna and flora with smaller geographic ranges are highly susceptible since they do not have many places to hide when forest fires break out. South America, South Asia, and Australia are some of the areas that are likely to be severely affected.

Forest fires will burn natural habitats, affect reproductive activities, and make food sources scarce. In cases where fires erupt during the wrong season, ecosystems may take a long time to regenerate.

Regional differences in global impact

Not all places will be impacted the same way by the extension of wildfire seasons. Certain areas of Africa may actually experience less fire damage because of the expected moisture levels in the future.

This illustrates how the risks of climate change are being altered in various ways for different environments.

Is there a way to lessen the risk?

Based on the findings of the studies done, cutting down greenhouse gas emissions can be a way to mitigate the risks of wildfires in the future. If such actions are taken, the increase in species vulnerability to fires will be cut by over 60%.

Furthermore, this research reveals an important weakness in current approaches to ecosystem conservation and protection from negative influences.

The broader perspective

Wildfires used to be seasonal phenomena in certain areas; however, now they are happening at any time throughout the year in various parts of the world.

In addition, according to the research done, longer fire seasons may become an integral part of the future landscape without proper measures taken.