4. Causes of Wildfires Flashcards
1
Q
Natural
A
In the USA, estimated that only 10% of fires have natural causes
Sparks from rockfalls
Volcanic eruptions
Lightning is the main cause- in particular ‘hot lightning’ which occurs for longer periods than ‘cold lightning’
2
Q
Human
A
90% in USA caused by humans Unattended campfires Discarding lit cigarettes Lighting agricultural fires Arson Falling power lines
3
Q
Evidence
A
Wildfire season has lengthened since 1979 and has been predicted more frequent and devastating fires could occur as climate warms