Wildfire Evolution in Washington (1980-2022)

By: Sonny Dong

Photo taken by: Narender​​a Pal Singh 

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WA Wildfires in 1980-1990

Explore the changing landscape, environmental challenges, and the resilience of ecosystems as we delve into the historical narrative of wildfires shaping the Evergreen State over the past four decades.

Note: Color scale is based off acres of land affected by fire and map is sectioned by WA counties

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WA Wildfires in 1990-2000

The 1990s experienced relatively the same as the last decade or arguably less. Nevertheless, not much change.

Photo taken by: sophisticated sensation

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WA Wildfires in 2000-2010

Navigating through the start of the 2000s, flames intensify, leaving an indelible mark on Washington's landscape during this pivotal decade.

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WA Wildfires in 2010-2022

Witness the staggering surge in wildfire activity during the past decade, indicating a need for more attention to the causes of wildfires. Why has there been such a dramatic increase in wildfires recently vs past decades?

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Overview: 1980-2022 Wildfires

We can see that more and more wildfires have been reported over the years. According to WA's Department of Ecology, "Climate change causes forest fuels (the trees and plants that burn and spread wildfire) to be drier and more easily ignited...These hotter and drier conditions also set the stage for more human-ignited wildfires.".

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