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The absence of snowfall in Himachal Pradesh has led to an increase in forest fires in the region. Data from the Indian Forest Survey shows that between October 16, 2023, and January 16, 2024, Himachal Pradesh experienced 2050 forest fires. In comparison, there were only 296 fires during the same period the previous year, indicating a seven-times increase this year.
Major fires damaged forests, houses
Fires have happened in all districts of the state. In the past three weeks, major fires in Kinnaur, Manali, Kullu, Chamba, and Shimla districts have damaged thousands of hectares of forest land and also affected residential houses.
Based on the Indian Forest Survey data, Himachal Pradesh had the most significant number of forest fires in the country in the past week, with 36 major incidents.
Data from the Himachal Pradesh Fire Department shows that there were 369 fire incidents in December, 275 of which were forest fires. These incidents caused Rs 10 crore worth of property damage. From January 1 to January 12, there have been 149 recorded fire incidents in the state.
The Weather Department reports that there has been no rainfall in January, which is unusual. Eight of the twelve districts in Himachal Pradesh are prone to forest fires. Usually, the riskiest period is from mid-April to June, but this year, more fires are happening even in winter.
Less snowfall leads to more fires
According to a study done by the University of Nevada in Reno, winter seasons are becoming shorter and they have less snow throughout the season, causing an increase in fire seasons by 25 days each year. The season is not only longer, but also the likelihood of revegetation in charred ecosystems has greatly reduced, which damages the forest's ecosystem.
As per the study, decreased snowfall can significantly contribute to an increase in forest fires. Snow acts as a natural barrier, providing moisture and reducing the susceptibility of vegetation to fire. When snowfall is less than usual, the vegetation dries out, making it more prone to catching fire. This creates a conducive environment for forest fires to ignite and spread.
Rising temperatures, decreasing snowpack, and biomass build-up from droughts all contribute to creating the perfect storm for an intense wildfire season.
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