Low Rainfall, High Winds: A Dangerous Recipe For Arizona Wildfires

I've lived in the Arizona desert for a long time, and I've seen a lot of weather trends. There's something so special about rain here; we appreciate every precious drop.

I think desert dwellers are more sensitive to the waxing and waning of precipitation in our arid state, which is why I'm getting nervous as the wheel of the year turns toward summer.

Arizona Bracing for Possibly the Worst Fire Season in Years

The Average Rainfall in Arizona

Even hundreds of miles away, we nervously watched as Southern California went up in flames late last year. The tragedy was a stark reminder that seemingly unrelated events can set terrible forces in motion.

It's been a dry winter in Southeastern Arizona this year, and we're beginning to worry spring will give way to wildfire season.

Are You Ready for Wildfire Season in Arizona?

On average, we've only had about two inches of precipitation this winter. That's a big shortfall, considering we usually average around 5-6 inches. This lack of moisture is a much bigger deal than it might seem. The lack of rain has left the vegetation dry and could ignite at the slightest spark.

Dry grasses and weeds combined with warmer-than-usual, windy weather may be a recipe for disaster. Fires could start easily and spread faster, making them harder to control.

If you were in Cochise County in 2011, you might remember the Monument Fire that spread quickly across Hereford, Palominas, and Sierra Vista Southeast under similar conditions. For those of us who lived it, we'll never forget the stress, anxiety, and loss many of us experienced.

Tips for Preventing Wildfires in Arizona

We're going to have to be extra vigilant across Arizona this year. Follow these tips:

1. Before burning anything, check with the fire department, get a burn permit, and never start a fire on windy days.
2. Clear dry brush, dead plants, and debris from around your home and business to create a defensible space.
3. Avoid things that could start a fire. Be careful with campfires and barbecues.
4. Always secure vehicle tow chains. The chains can create sparks on pavement that can ignite a fire.
5. Follow local fire restrictions and immediately report any suspicious activity or unattended fires to authorities.

If we work together, we can prevent wildfires before they start.

Sources: ASU Climate | Climate.gov | Fema: Wildfire Actions | American Red Cross | Extreme Weather Watch: Average Precipitation | WeatherSpark.com