The Worsening Air Quality in the US East Coast
Centers of the US east coast authorities from New York to Minnesota have issued public health alerts. They have urged people to stay indoors and wear masks to protect themselves from potentially toxic fine particles in the air. Unfortunately, unhealthy air quality levels are widespread in the east coast, except for the Adirondacks, which is now the only place with clean air in the state.
The Causes of Wildfires
Wildfires are more prone to occur when the ground is dry and the air is hot. Therefore, wildfire season lasts throughout the summer. Canadas Atlantic region has been heavily affected by droughts and marked their driest April on record. While humans contribute to wildfires by leaving campfires unattended and throwing lit cigarettes, these instances only constitute 50 percent of the causes. The other half remains unknown and can start anywhere and anytime.
The Role of Climate Change
Climate change plays a significant role in exacerbating the intensity of high pressure zones and bringing prolonged periods of hot conditions. It also worsens drought. Although climate change itself does not cause heat waves or fires, it sets the stage so that when conditions are ripe, heat waves are more intense, and fires burn more fiercely.
The Devastation of Wildfires
Wildfires leave behind environmental destruction that is felt for years after they are put out. Entire ecosystems are wiped out with the indiscriminate recklessness of the wildfire, leading to changes that ripple throughout the food chain. Homes, businesses, and families are destroyed, sometimes leaving survivors without any place to go. Treasures are lostlibraries burn down and pieces of art are turned to ash.
Wildfires Cause Harm to Humans and Wildlife
Wildfires may happen every year, but their detrimental effects are getting worse each time. The frequent outbreaks of wildfires worldwide are showing alarming signs of the impact of the climate crisis on our planet. Besides destroying forests and towns, wildfires also pose severe health risks to humans and wildlife.
Air Pollution and Human Health
Wildfires cause harm to human health by emitting significant amounts of harmful air pollutants into the atmosphere. Children, elderly, and pregnant women are the most susceptible groups, and air pollutants can cause lung irritation, inflammation, and damage to blood vessels. The pollutants can also damage the brain and heart, especially in people who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or other medical conditions.
Air pollution from wildfires can also cause respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. As the fire burns, it releases tiny particles that can enter the lungs, causing severe respiratory problems. These pollutants can also affect other body organs, such as the liver and kidneys.
Effect on Wildlife
Wild animals are also victims of wildfires. Many animals lose their habitats and cannot survive in the burned-down forests and fields. As a result, animal populations are decreasing, and many are endangered. The destruction of animal habitats contributes to biodiversity loss and leaves many species vulnerable.
Wildfires also disrupt animal migration patterns and cause a ripple effect through entire ecosystems. Animals that depend on plants for food lose a vital source of nutrition leading to a decline in the population of herbivores and ultimately, carnivores.
Rescue Efforts
Conservation officers and volunteers are stepping up to rescue displaced animals in areas affected by wildfires. Many farm animals and pets have been discovered in areas affected by the wildfires, and volunteers are providing temporary shelter to these animals until they can find permanent homes.
Governments, conservation organizations, and individuals must take immediate action to prevent wildfires and limit the damage they cause. Initiatives like forest fire prevention and reforestation play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and restoring animal habitats.
The dramatic increase in wildfires is not just affecting the US, but the world as a whole. Unchecked carbon dioxide emissions are devastating our planet, and its our responsibility to take action by reducing our carbon footprint. Each of us can make a difference by taking small steps such as switching to public transport, minimizing waste, and recycling. By doing so, we can help reduce the impact of climate change and protect our planet.
The adverse effects of wildfires extend beyond visible damage and devastation. The impact they have on air quality, human health, and wildlife is long-lasting. We must recognize the significance of wildfires as a threat to our ecosystems, to our health, and to future generations. Urgent measures must be taken to prevent, manage, and minimize the loss occurring in these catastrophic calamities.
