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Warmer Fall days could lead to more wildfire danger

Climate data since 1950 shows East Texas has been trending warmer into the fall season.

TYLER, Texas — The prospect of crisp, cool weather is something that many of us look forward to when we think of Fall. But those cool days may be a long time coming — and more dangerous. 

When analyzing climate data, experts are seeing one glaring piece of information: warmer days are extending longer into the Fall season.

Recent data provided by Climate Central shows that Tyler is averaging close to 9 days above normal during the fall season since 1970.

Credit: Climate Central

Additionally, the city of Tyler is trending 1.8 degrees Farenheit warmer than 50 years ago. A warmer season can lead to threats such as wildfires and although wildfire activity has been trending lower for East Texas this Summer, the undeniable danger is still there.

Credit: Climate Central

Kari Hines is the Program Coordinator for the Texas A&M forest service and explains how the increased moisture measured this Summer could catch up to us.

"Even when we have wet years, it just means that vegetation is growing and at some point, the rain is going to turn off and the humidity is going to decrease and all of that material that has been growing so very well is going to be available to burn in a wildfire," Hines said. 

According to Climate Central, since 1973 East Texas has seen an increase in warm, windy and dry Autumn days known often called "fire weather days."

Hines says that although the percentage varies according to state, 80% to 90% of wildfires are caused by human activity. In Texas, debris burning is linked as the number one human-related cause for wildfires.

"As people are going to be going out in the outdoors more often, that means we are using off-road vehicles more, we're barbequing more, we're using campfires more," Hines said. "You might be doing Fall clean-up on your property and debris burning. So, those are all things that can start a wildfire. Anything that produces heat can start a fire."

To do your part, stay up to date on weather and dry conditions. Remove any brush or vegetation and enjoy outdoor activities responsibly.  

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