“Fires will threaten homes and wildlife habitat year around.”

By Linn Smith

December 9, 2017—–Many climatologists say that people won’t change their destructive habits until the effects of climate change “are in their own backyard.”

Are we there yet?

Is it in our own backyard? An example of “in my backyard” came in the form of a rattlesnake in my path several weeks ago. In Arizona, most of the snakes have slowed down and are more or less invisible starting in November. Because of unusually warm temperatures this year, the rattlers were slithering about in the paths of many unsuspecting people out for a stroll. 

As I took my dog for a walk one evening, my headlamp picked up a rattler about 6 feet ahead, stretched out and warming itself on the heated asphalt. I could have easily stepped on it if I hadn’t been paying attention. Warming temperatures are changing the habits of wildlife!

The California Fires

The fires in California in December are another example. Scientists have stated, “In the future there will be no fire season. Fires will threaten homes and wildlife habitat year around.”

According to insideclimatenews.org, climate change along with other factors are fueling the California fires by, “epic winds, dry brush and high humidity,” allowing a small ember to create a disaster.

In California high temperatures have caused a drought which has left much dry timber and underbrush vulnerable to fire. The slightest mishap, such as downed utility lines, a careless toss of a cigarette or embers from a campfire, can lead to a disaster. “As long as there’s fuel to burn, your chances of having a large fire increases when temperatures increase, it’s as simple as that,” said Park Williams, a Bioclimatologist.

Though research models don’t always agree, many studies show that if carbon emissions continue at a high level, extreme weather resulting in fires, flooding and hurricanes will continue to increase rapidly in strength and frequency. 

Now is the time to do your part in creating a healthy planet for present and future generations.

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