Mountain West Sees Increase in Fire Weather Days Due to Climate Change
A recent analysis highlights a significant rise in 'fire weather days' across the Mountain West region, attributed to climate change. Fire weather days are defined by a combination of hot, dry, and windy conditions persisting for at least two hours in a day. According to Kaitlin Trudeau, an applied climate scientist with Climate Central, the fire season in many areas has extended by up to two additional months compared to the 1970s. This extension has led to more frequent and intense wildfires, which burn hotter, spread faster, and are more destructive. The increase is particularly pronounced in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico, with notable rises also observed in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho. These conditions not only elevate wildfire risks but also contribute to power outages and deteriorating air quality. 
