VIDEO: This month there have already been more than 200 wildfires, according to the Maine Forest Service. That is the most fires Maine has seen in the month of August in at least 20 years. Before this year, the most August wildfires recorded in Maine in the last two decades was around 100. The average number of wildfires in August is only around 40. โSo weโre seeing like double anything weโve seen in the last 20 years,โ Terri Teller, forest fire prevention specialist with the Maine Forest Service, told NEWS CENTER Maine.
This high number of fires is driven by drought. There hasnโt been much rain in the past several weeks, causing plants to dry out and more easily catch fire. Because of these conditions, the fire risk in most of Maine has been high or very high for over two weeks. โWeโre really watching the weather for the next few weeks and hoping we get some rain,โ Teller said.
Though the number of fires in August is unprecedented, Teller said forest rangers are working hard to fight them. โRight now, we’re meeting the need. We’re keeping up with what’s been coming our way,โ Teller said. Forest rangers have increased staffing and wildfire suppression equipment statewide. Theyโve also established task forces in several areas in the state to reach remote areas faster. These tasks forces are composed of rangers, local firefighters, and heavy-duty fire engines.
โ[Weโve] increased our aviation resources and made them more available throughout the state and are really important for us to be able to investigate when there are reports of smoke or really to get firefighters and other resources to the scene as quick as we can,โ Teller explained.
The Maine Forest Service has shut off online burn permits for areas where the fire danger is high, and that will continue until conditions improve. โThat really tamps down one of our biggest causes of fires traditionally in the state,โ Teller said.
Many areas are restricting open burning as the fire risk remains elevated. You can check with your town or city to find out the current regulations near you. When it comes to having a campfire, Teller said you should be extra cautious. Be mindful of the weather conditions: watch out for wind and low humidity. Make sure to always keep an eye on the fire and extinguish it properly to prevent forest fires.
The wildfire danger in Maine is posted online daily.
