Wildfires

Wildfires raging across Arctic and boreal regions are igniting ancient carbon in soils, releasing far more carbon dioxide than climate models have assumed. A new study of soil cores shows that some fires are burning organic matter up to 5,000 years old.

May 13, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

A new essay examines insights from the recent Pacific Palisades burning.

In Cape Town, the sound of Bell Huey helicopters signals wildfires on Table Mountain, where pilots like John Mittelmeyer drop water to contain the blazes. These aircraft play a key role in initial suppression, working alongside ground crews to protect the area. Most fires have human origins, highlighting the need for vigilance in this fynbos-rich landscape.

March 04, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

A new study from UC Berkeley indicates that climate models may significantly underestimate carbon emissions from wildfires in boreal forests due to overlooked peat soil burning. Researchers analyzed 2018 wildfires in Sweden and found that smoldering underground fires release ancient carbon stored for centuries. This discrepancy highlights potential gaps in global emission estimates, especially in vast regions like Siberia and Canada.

The Western Cape is grappling with severe water shortages and wildfires, prompting MEC Anton Bredell to seek a provincial disaster declaration. In Knysna, the main dam is at 15% capacity, leaving just 10 days of water. Broader issues include depleted firefighting budgets and infrastructure failures.

January 15, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

The National Service for Prevention and Response to Disasters (Senapred) declared a red alert in the Los Ángeles commune, Biobío Region, due to a wildfire threatening homes. The blaze, named “Munilque,” has consumed at least 2.5 hectares of vegetation near populated areas, prompting the evacuation of at least 20 homes in the La Isla sector.