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Historic Wildfire Season Begins: Unprecedented Fires Across the U.S.

KVIA••CNN Newsource
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The wildfire season in the U.S. has started with alarming intensity, marking the highest number of fires in nearly two decades. As of May, nearly 30,000 fires have ignited, burning over 2 million acres—double the average of the past decade. The Southeast, particularly Georgia, is experiencing record fire activity, with more than 3,000 fires and 83,000 acres burned. Factors such as prolonged drought, low snowpack, and a developing 'Super' El Niño are exacerbating conditions, leading experts to predict a worsening situation as summer approaches. Residents should remain vigilant as fire risks are expected to continue through July.

Key Details: • Over 30,000 fires reported in the U.S. since January 2023. • More than 2 million acres burned, the highest in 14 years. • Georgia has seen 3,000 fires and 83,000 acres burned this year. • Expect high fire activity through July due to ongoing drought conditions.

environment climate drought wildfire southeast

People & Organizations

CaliforniaFloridaGeorgiaNebraskaNational Interagency Fire CenterGeorgia Forestry CommissionMorgan VarnerThomas BarrettTall Timbers Research Station & Land Conservancy

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