By Adam Stewart, Director, Product Marketing @ Genasys
Wildfires have long been synonymous with the dry, arid landscapes of the western United States. However, recent trends indicate that the East Coast is no longer immune to these devastating events. As climate change continues to alter weather patterns, the frequency and intensity of wildfires in the eastern U.S. are on the rise, making preparedness a necessity for communities across the nation.
Increasing Wildfire Activity on the East Coast
Historically, the East Coast has experienced fewer and less severe wildfires compared to the West. However, recent studies show a troubling increase in wildfire activity in this region. Factors such as prolonged droughts, higher temperatures, and changes in vegetation are contributing to more frequent and intense fires[1]. For instance, parts of northern New Jersey and coastal New York are now experiencing significantly more days of fire weather each year compared to the 1970s[2].
A study by the First Street Foundation found that wildfire risk is increasing faster than flood risk across the U.S., with areas not traditionally considered wildfire-prone now facing significant threats[2]. This includes parts of the East Coast, where millions of properties are at risk. The study highlighted that regions such as South and North Carolina are among those with the most properties threatened by fires[2].
Differences Between East and West Coast Wildfires
While both regions are experiencing more wildfires, the nature of these fires can differ significantly:
- Climate and Vegetation: The West Coast’s dry climate and vast forests create conditions for large, fast-spreading wildfires. In contrast, the East Coast, with its more humid climate and mixed forests, typically sees smaller but still dangerous fires. The vegetation on the East Coast, which includes a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, can create a different fire behavior compared to the predominantly coniferous forests of the West.
- Seasonality: Wildfire season in the West is well-defined, usually peaking in the summer and fall. On the East Coast, wildfires can occur almost year-round due to varying weather patterns. This variability makes it more challenging to predict and prepare for wildfires in the East.
- Urban-Wildland Interface: The East Coast has a higher density of population and infrastructure within the wildland-urban interface, increasing the risk to human life and property when wildfires occur[1]. This means that even smaller fires can have significant impacts on communities.
The Impact of Climate Change
Climate change is a major driver behind the increasing wildfire activity on the East Coast. Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are creating conditions that are more conducive to wildfires. For example, warmer temperatures can lead to drier vegetation, which serves as fuel for fires. Additionally, changes in precipitation patterns can result in longer periods of drought, further increasing the risk of wildfires[2].
A study by the University of Washington found that wildfire smoke is becoming a significant health concern across the U.S., including the East Coast[3]. The study used satellite imagery and ground-level PM2.5 readings to identify areas most affected by wildfire smoke. It found that cities like Baltimore and Detroit experienced significant increases in PM2.5 levels due to wildfire smoke, leading to higher rates of respiratory issues[3].
The Need for Preparedness
Given the increasing risk, it is crucial for communities across the U.S. to enhance their wildfire preparedness. This includes developing comprehensive evacuation plans, improving communication systems, and ensuring that residents are informed and ready to act in case of an emergency.
- Evacuation Plans: Communities need to have clear and well-practiced evacuation plans in place. This includes identifying evacuation routes, establishing communication protocols, and ensuring that residents know what to do in the event of a wildfire.
- Communication Systems: Effective communication is key to ensuring that residents receive timely and accurate information during a wildfire. This includes using multiple channels to disseminate information, such as social media, emergency alert systems, and community meetings.
- Public Education: Educating the public about wildfire risks and preparedness measures is essential. This includes providing information on how to create defensible space around homes, what to include in emergency kits, and how to stay informed during a wildfire.
How Genasys Solutions Can Help
Genasys offers advanced solutions that can significantly aid in wildfire preparedness and response. Genasys Protect provides tools for evacuation planning and management, ensuring that communities can efficiently and safely evacuate when necessary. Additionally, Genasys ACOUSTICS and LRAD (Long-Range Acoustic Devices) can be used to broadcast clear, audible warnings over large areas, helping to alert residents quickly and effectively.
Genasys EVAC is a comprehensive evacuation management system that helps communities plan, execute, and manage evacuations. It provides real-time data and analytics to support decision-making, ensuring that evacuations are carried out efficiently and safely. With Genasys EVAC, communities can better coordinate their response efforts and minimize the impact of wildfires on residents.
Genasys ALERT is an advanced communication system that delivers critical information to residents during emergencies. It uses multiple channels, including voice, text, and email, to ensure that residents receive timely and accurate information. Genasys ALERT can be integrated with other emergency management systems, providing a seamless and effective communication solution for communities.
By leveraging these technologies, communities can better plan for and respond to the growing threat of wildfires, protecting lives and property. As wildfires become a more common occurrence on both coasts, investing in preparedness and advanced communication solutions is more important than ever. Preparedness is key to mitigating the impact of wildfires. With the right tools and strategies, we can ensure that communities are ready to face this growing challenge, head-on.
Contact Genasys to learn more about Genasys ALERT and EVAC and be ‘ready when it matters.’
[1] Wildfires increasing across eastern U.S., new study reveals
[2] U.S. wildfire dangers spread east as climate risks grow
[3] Map Reveals Worst Wildfire Smoke Hotspots in America
