Autumn is about to hit, and leaders prepare for the fall wildfire outlook with every outcome in mind to avoid disaster. According to the World Health Organization, wildfires can wreak havoc by interrupting transportation infrastructures and cutting off access to power, gas, and water. These consequences can be fatal for anybody in a wildfire’s path. However, unfortunately, wildfires are still a significant concern throughout many parts of the U.S. Forecasts indicate that this will continue to be accurate in fall 2022.

Fall Wildfire Outlook: What It Looks Like

There is a higher-than-average risk throughout many parts of the country. Firefighters in the following five regions should prepare for the fall season by understanding the level of risk in their area.

Northeast

States in the Northeast include Maine, Massachusetts, and New York. These states’ proximity to the eastern seaboard often reduces the risk of wildfires. However, this may not be true come fall. The National Interagency Fire Center indicates that wildfire risk will be higher throughout the northeast, especially in states such as Pennsylvania and New Hampshire, that are further inland. This higher-than-usual risk means that every department must invest in firefighter insurance coverage.

Southwest

Southwestern states such as Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah will be affected by the North American Monsoon as it spreads across the region in September. It will increase precipitation, minimizing the risk of drought and thus reducing the likelihood of wildfire. Despite this, temperatures may be higher than average, so fire departments should still be on high alert. Firefighter liability insurance can protect departments against the many liabilities that may emerge in high temperatures and unpredictable conditions.

West

Firefighters in the West should prepare for typical levels of wildfire risk. This time of year traditionally brings reduced precipitation in states such as California, Washington, and Oregon, and large fires are common in fall. It is primarily due to widespread droughts throughout the region. Over two-thirds of the Western region is affected by drought, so wildfires are, unfortunately, a trend that’s likely to continue in the fall.

Southeast

Predictions indicate that the Southeast will receive more precipitation in sporadic surges and significant thunderstorms. The southern states like Florida and George will enjoy a relatively low wildfire risk — but that doesn’t mean that departments should relax safety standards. Professional liability coverage for firefighters is still essential for departments in this region.

Midwest

Midwestern states such as Kansas and Nebraska will likely experience extended drought periods in the fall. It will probably present an elevated wildfire risk that increased winds may exacerbate. Other states in the Midwest — including Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri — displayed arid soil conditions, indicating that the potential for wildfire may also be higher than usual.

About Provident Fire Plus

At Provident Fire Plus, we offer custom-tailored packages to best protect firefighters and volunteer firefighters. We understand the risks that emergency response teams are subjected to on a daily basis, and have worked to serve these dedicated professionals for over 87 years. For more information about our products and policies, we invite you to contact our experts today at (855) 201-8880.