Environment
The fire science experts are reporting that the wildfire season will start early this year and last longer into the fall. Truckee's Sierra Sun reports that even though the Sierra received notably less snow, precipitation was near normal creating a "wet snow drought". This could create perfect conditions for catastrophic wildfires this season. Low soil moisture, dry forests, and abundant brush and grasses (ladder fuels). Drier trees are less able to produce sufficient sap to ward off bark beetles leading to tree mortality and more dry fuel.
Historically, human caused fire causes are many. In our area, construction activities have caused fires. Residential causes include mishandled fireplace ashes and escaped burn piles. Recreationally causes have included parking on dry grass, target shooting and insufficiently extinguished "campfires". Several campfire fires have actually been abandoned party bonfires like with the Tahoe Angora Fire and the Waterfall Fire west of Carson City.
So everyone needs to be aware and extra careful this season to be fire safe. We can do it!
For further reading on local wildfires Truckee Meadows Tomorrow has a data driven study here.
Living With Fire is your source for preparing your yard and home to defend against wildfires. Recent fires have burned through neighborhoods, stone and block homes, and green landscaping so very home is at risk.
Reno in Flames has another comprehensive article on local wildfires with an interactive map of previous events.
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