The catastrophic bushfire season we are currently experiencing in Australia is a clear example of the impacts of climate change playing out before our eyes. This infographic explains how climate change influences bushfires in four ways:
- A longer fire season. Hotter conditions mean a longer fire season, leading to more dangerous bushfires and leaving less time for hazard reduction.
- Hotter temperatures. Australia is getting hotter, with more extreme hot days and longer, hotter heatwaves. These conditions are increasing the risk of bushfires in many areas.
- Drier vegetation & ‘fuel’. Hotter conditions and periods of low rainfall dry out soil and vegetation, increasing fire risk.
- More lightning. A warmer climate increases the chance of lightning, which is a key factor in starting fires.
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