Earlier this year, the Southeast U.S. experienced wildfires following a series of extreme weather events, according to Lauren Lowman, an associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Wake Forest University. Lowman explained that while wildfires are often associated with western states, they play a natural role in the ecosystems of the Southeast.
“We often think of wildfires as an issue for western states in the U.S. or in drier climates, but actually here in the southeast U.S., fire and wildfire are a very natural part of our ecosystems,” said Lowman.
The region typically has significant areas burned by both prescribed burns and wildfires combined. However, these fires often occur away from populated areas. Recently, there have been more incidents closer to where people live.
Lowman described how extreme weather events such as hurricanes can increase vulnerability to wildfires. She noted that the past year saw “weather whiplash,” with conditions swinging from droughts to floods and back to droughts.
“When we have extreme dry events like flash droughts or long, persistent droughts, dead vegetation from these very dry periods fuels wildfires,” she said.
Hurricanes can also damage trees through wind or flooding, creating more dry fuel when followed by dry conditions. This increases the potential intensity of subsequent fires.
Flash drought is a term used for extreme drought events occurring within two weeks. During such periods, normal or wet conditions rapidly become extremely dry.
Despite common misconceptions about their negative impact, Lowman emphasized that wildfires benefit certain species and ecosystems in the region. For example, some native plants and animals rely on fire for survival.
Lowman’s research aims to understand how natural vegetation responds to various extreme weather events. Her study sites focus on maintaining native species and understanding fire’s role in altering forest canopy structure and regional budgets related to carbon, energy, and water.
For further insights into her work, readers can refer to her article published this spring in The Conversation titled “Carolina wildfires followed months of weather whiplash.”
