Escalating Wildfires: How Unprecedented Heat and Drought Are Fueling Global Fires

India’s northern mountains and central plains are experiencing intense wildfires this season. Experts highlight how changing climate patterns and human actions are making wildfire seasons longer and more severe, leading to serious ecological effects.

Recent data from the Forest Survey of India (FSI) shows that between April 11 and 18 alone, Madhya Pradesh faced 2,754 incidents of fire. Other affected states included Maharashtra with 1,766 fires and Chhattisgarh with 876. Since November 2024, Madhya Pradesh has reported over 21,000 fires, contributing to a national total of over 84,000 alerts in March.

These fires are damaging forests and threatening biodiversity. Sunil Chandra, a deputy director at FSI, explained, “Human activity initiates about 90% of these fires.” Communities near forests often unintentionally spark these incidents, often as part of their daily activities.

This year’s dry winter, particularly severe in parts of India, is a major factor. For instance, Jammu and Kashmir experienced an 80% deficit in snowfall. This has resulted in water shortages and worsened ecological conditions. Climate scientists link these changes to anomalies caused by a weak Western disturbance pattern and the effects of El Niño, which is known for altering weather patterns that may reduce rainfall in India.

By March 2025, India recorded unusually high temperatures. The heat waves, coupled with dry conditions, have set the stage for increased wildfires. States like Madhya Pradesh and Odisha are under heatwave alerts as temperatures continue to soar. This combination of a dry winter and rising temperatures poses significant risks to water security, agriculture, and forest fire danger.

Despite a reported decline in fire hotspots over the past years, long-term trends reveal otherwise. A study examining data from 2005 to 2022 shows a significant increase in fire incidents, contradicting earlier beliefs of a decline. Between 2005 and 2022, the average maximum temperature rose steadily, highlighting the impact of climate change.

Human activities and rising population density are major contributors to this increase. Many fires in regions like northeast India stem from traditional practices such as shifting cultivation. Chethan Kumar, a wildlife expert, noted that practices like burning to gather flowers or promote mushroom growth are common causes of accidental fires.

Moreover, forest fires are increasingly destructive. While they can help clear debris and contribute to soil health, the current frequency and intensity often lead to severe habitat loss and displacement of species. Kumar points out that amphibians and reptiles are especially vulnerable during these events. They become trapped as fires spread rapidly.

The FSI scientists did not directly link the rise in fires to climate change, but numerous studies have indicated that climate change is a significant factor in forest fire dynamics. As India faces a hotter season ahead, experts call for improved fire management strategies and community awareness. Addressing forest fires effectively requires combining resources, reducing economic vulnerabilities, and empowering local communities.

For further reading on the state of forest fires in India, check the India State of Forest Report 2023.

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