Wildfires across the U.S. have burned nearly 4 million acres this year — an increase of 233% over the same period last year. Just by itself, the Dixie Fire (California’s second-largest fire in state history) consumed more than 550,000 acres, destroying more than 1,120 structures and threatening nearly 15,000 more.
Each year, it seems wildfire season grows in both longevity and severity. In California alone, Cal Fire estimated the season has increased by 75 days, and some experts believe the threat of wildfires is now year-round instead of during the traditional May to October timeline.