Study Shows Extreme Fire, Extreme Rain Events Rising in the West, Leading to Dangerous Cycle

Climate researchers have released a study forecasting that extreme fire and rain events will continue to rise in the western U.S., with dangerous consequences in the form of more debris flows, mudslides, and flash floods. The study concludes that both wildfires and extreme rainfall will increase in the West as climate change persists. While the rise in wildfires was expected, scientists were surprised and concerned at their results stating that extreme rainfall events are much more likely to occur in the aftermath. “More than half of extreme wildfire events will be followed within a year by an extreme rainfall event…, and virtually all extreme wildfires in the Pacific Northwest will be followed within five years by extreme rainfall,” according to Smart Water Magazine. 

Due to the need to regrow ground cover and roots, regions affected by a wildfire have a heightened risk for debris flows for up to 3 to 5 years and for flash floods for up to 5 to 8 years. “It’s very concerning, given the destruction that comes with these kinds of events,” said Danielle Touma, the study’s lead author. “Clearly we need to understand the risks better, as this creates a major threat to people and infrastructure.” While the authors stated the worst-case scenario in the study is becoming less likely as countries continue to cut emissions, it is expected that the gap between the West’s wildfire and downpour seasons will continue to shorten. Read more at AP News or at Smart Water Magazine.