What Has Scientists 'Shaking in Their Boots' on Wildfires

Key Points:

• Despite extreme wildfires in Europe and North America this summer, global wildfire burning statistics are at a record low, mainly due to better fire control in Africa and Asia.
• Wildfires in North America and Europe have increased in size, intensity, and frequency, with Canada and the US seeing at least 25% more land burned than the 10-year average, causing significant air quality issues.
• The European climate center Copernicus reports record low global emissions from burning fires this year, attributed to reduced fire activity in Africa and Asia due to improved agricultural practices and fire management.
• Africa and Asia contribute over three-quarters of global emissions from burning plant material, while North America and Europe contribute less than one-eighth, highlighting regional differences in fire prevalence.
• Fire activity is expected to worsen in the coming months due to the development of a super-strong El Niño, which could exacerbate wildfire conditions globally.