An unusually dry fall and rising global temperatures are increasing the threat of wildfires and droughts in the Northeast, prompting calls for long-term readiness.
Hilary Howard reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- The Jennings Creek wildfire has burned 5,300 acres near the New York-New Jersey border amid severe drought, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to wildfires.
- Since October, over 860 wildfires have occurred across New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, with record-breaking incidents in New York City parks and ongoing fires in rural areas.
- Experts warn that climate-driven weather extremes, such as "weather whiplash," will increase drought and fire risks, necessitating better emergency planning and resource allocation.
Key quote:
"We have never experienced conditions like this.”
— Bill Donnelly, chief of the New Jersey Forest Fire Service
Why this matters:
Rising temperatures amplify droughts and wildfires, threatening ecosystems, public health and infrastructure in regions historically unaccustomed to such events. Preparing for these risks is critical to protecting communities from climate-driven hazards.
