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Abrupt, climate-induced increase in wildfires in British Columbia since the mid-2000s

Environmental Studies and Forestry

Abrupt, climate-induced increase in wildfires in British Columbia since the mid-2000s

M. Parisien, Q. E. Barber, et al.

Discover how British Columbia has faced unprecedented wildfire challenges in recent years, driven by both climate change and historical land practices. This insightful research conducted by Marc-André Parisien, Quinn E. Barber, and others uncovers the troubling trends behind intensified wildfire seasons in the region.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
British Columbia (BC), Canada, experienced four of its most severe wildfire seasons in the past seven years (2017, 2018, 2021, and 2023). Analysis of wildfire perimeters (1919–2021) and climate data reveals a sharp increase in fire activity since 2005, coinciding with a reversal of the 20th-century wetting trend. Despite high precipitation, warming temperatures and increased evaporative demand have led to greater moisture deficits. Legacy factors like past wildfires, insect outbreaks, and land-use practices also influence fire activity. The combined effects of climate change and altered fuel loads have resulted in more frequent and intense wildfire seasons in BC.
Publisher
Communications Earth & Environment
Published On
Sep 05, 2023
Authors
Marc-André Parisien, Quinn E. Barber, Mathieu L. Bourbonnais, Lori D. Daniels, Mike D. Flannigan, Robert W. Gray, Kira M. Hoffman, Piyush Jain, Scott L. Stephens, Steve W. Taylor, Ellen Whitman
Tags
wildfires
British Columbia
climate change
moisture deficits
fire activity
land-use practices
environmental impact
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