As we soak up the Minnesota summer, temperatures are continuing to rise. After a long, cold winter, many of us love this season. But the heat has its drawbacks. A Minnesota drought can occasionally lead to wildfires.
Wildfires quickly consume acres of land, along with houses and other buildings. These types of fires can occur anywhere and are often unexpected.
What Causes Droughts?
Many factors contribute to droughts, including landscape changes, climate change, and temperatures in the ocean (NASA). Drier conditions affect crops and cause water supply problems. Long periods of drought also facilitate the start and spread of wildfires.
Curious if there’s currently a Minnesota drought? This monitoring service provides up-to-date information for the entirety of the United States.
Water Conservation Tips
“The average Minnesota resident uses about 52 gallons per person per day,” according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
As Minnesota’s population grows, one of the best things you can do for our local environment is to conserve water. Try implementing these water conservation tips into your daily routine.
- Shorten your time in the shower (Five minutes or less is ideal). Use a timer to help you track this!
- Only run your washing machine or dishwasher when it’s full.
- Wash clothes with cold water instead of hot.
- Turn off the water while washing your face, shaving, or brushing your teeth.
- When it comes time to upgrade your toilet, consider one with a dual flush.
- Catch rainwater in a rain barrel to water plants.
- Use drought-tolerant and native Minnesota plants in your landscaping.
- Fix all leaky plumbing and faucets.
By doing our part, we can conserve water and work to ensure there’s enough to go around.
The Threat of Wildfires
Every year in the United States, there are over 100,000 wildfires that damage millions of acres of land. You may not live in an area known for wildfire outbreaks, but hazardous fires can occur anywhere at any time. In 2021, 2,066 Minnesota wildfires culminated in 69,405 acres burned (National Interagency Fire Center).
According to the National Park Service, humans start nearly 85% of United States wildfires. Small fires can grow from matches, cigarettes, campfires, sparks from a vehicle, power lines, or arson.
Nature also causes her fair share of destruction. Lightning, dry heat, high winds, humidity, and even the sun can lead to wildfires.
Once the fire becomes more significant, it can create its own weather, increasing oxygen flow and enhancing the flames. From there, you can sometimes see fire whirls, a destructive phenomenon akin to a tornado.
How to Protect People and Property from Wildfire Dangers
Help prevent wildfires from affecting your home or business:
- Choose building materials, furnishings, and fire-resistant plants.
- Prune trees and shrubs away from the building.
- Clear your roofs and gutters of tree branches, leaves, and other plants.
- Water the lawn using local guidelines.
- Clear the landscape of fallen leaves and other debris.
- Make sure campfires or bonfires are closely watched and properly extinguished.
- Have an evacuation plan in the event of a wildfire threat.
- Keep tabs on Minnesota wildfire levels. You can use the USDA Forest Service Fire Mapping to stay informed all summer.
While wildfires can last for weeks, smoke and ash can linger much longer. Smoke, ash, and soot have corrosive chemicals that can damage the structure, building material, and property contents. If a wildfire sparks or is in the area:
- Stay indoors, turn the air conditioner on to recirculate, and keep exterior doors and windows closed.
- Install clean air and HEPA filters in air conditioning or air purification units.
- Monitor your family’s health. Seek medical attention if you experience persistent coughing, throat soreness, or difficulty breathing.
What to Do in the Event of Minnesota Wildfire Damage
Paul Davis Restoration of Greater MSP is the place to call if you experience property damage. We clean up all existing damage, including water damage, and restore your property to how it looked. With quick response time (including 24/7 emergency services), professionalism, and innovative solutions, we aim to exceed your highest expectations for performance.
Take a closer look at before and after photos to see how we get the job done!