Forest fire risk assessment shows an environmental serious threat
The risk assessment for forest fires does not look too good. Right now the Greeks in Rhodes are fighting to fight serious forest fires. Climate change is making forest fires more common, intense, and difficult to control. This is because the climate is getting warmer and drier, making it easier for wildfires to start and spread. In addition, more people live in areas prone to wildfires, increasing the risk of injury and death.
Attempts are being made to put out the forest fire. Athens, Greece, 4 June 2022.
First came climate change, and the terrible forest fires took off. Then the forest fires lead to higher CO2 emissions and… it’s a scary spiral, and it applies to many environmental issues.
According to a report by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), extreme forest fires will increase by about 50% by the end of the 21st century. This is because climate change will make the forests drier and more flammable.
Forest fires have a number of negative consequences. They can destroy forests, damage infrastructure and property, and they can lead to deaths. Forest fires can also release large amounts of CO2 into the atmosphere, which contributes to climate change.
Where are the worst forest fires in the world?
The worst wildfires in the world are currently in 2023 in Australia, Greece, Turkey, and California.
Australia: The Australian bushfires are the worst to hit the country in decades. The fires have displaced over 30,000 people and destroyed over 2,000 houses. At least 28 people have died in the fires.
Greece: The Greek forest fires are the worst to hit the country in decades. The fires have displaced over 10,000 people and destroyed over 1,000 houses. At least 88 people have died in the fires.
Turkey: The Turkish forest fires are the worst to hit the country in decades. The fires have displaced over 30,000 people and destroyed over 3,000 houses. At least 8 people have died in the fires.
California: The California wildfires are the worst to hit the state in decades. The fires have displaced over 100,000 people and destroyed over 10,000 houses. At least 11 people have died in the fires.
Skovbrand meget tæt på huse, Povoa de Lanhoso, Portugal
How many people have died this year from a forest fire?
According to the UN, over 1,000 people have died in forest fires worldwide this year. Most of the deaths have occurred in Australia, Greece, Turkey, and California.
But can we fight the huge forest fires?
There are a number of things that can be done to prevent forest fires. They are usually not done, since forest fires manage to get very large very often. These include:
To clear vegetation away from around buildings and other structures
To create fire belts around towns and villages, including hotels, campsites etc.
To educate people about the risk of forest fires and how to prevent them
To invest in technologies to monitor and fight forest fires
It is important to remember that forest fires can be very dangerous. If you are in a forest fire, follow these tips to protect yourself and your loved ones:
Stay in your home if possible. If you cannot stay in your home, find a safe place to go, e.g. a fire station or other public place.
Note the direction of the wind and the spread of the fire.
Take some water and food with you.
If you are caught in the fire, take shelter in a cave or other safe place.
Follow closely in reliable media
Contact neighbors
Call for help if you can when the fire is approaching.
As a traveler, contact your travel company or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs immediately
Forest fires affected countries
