Accelerated drying increases potential wildfire ignitions statewide

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Significant wildfire activity has increased statewide, and accelerated drying has elevated the potential for new wildfire ignitions. New wildfires will become increasingly difficult to extinguish if current temperatures and drying conditions persist into August as forecasted, according to Texas A&M Forest Service experts. “Vegetation is rapidly losing moisture due to consecutive days of extremely high temperatures,” said Brad Smith, Texas A&M Forest Service predictive services department head. “Grass that was green five days ago has wilted and turned brown under the accelerated drying produced from the extreme heat. It will be quite difficult to replenish this lost moisture during the normally dry months of July and August.”

Important note:

NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) Fire Prevention Week Webinar, Thursday, July 30, Noon - 1:00 p.m.

To register: <https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_sCSVloF7TuK1VfnqY17bfQ>.