Wildfires. Destructive, uncontrolled, and not something to worry about in Florida. Right?
In recent years, the number of wildfires has skyrocketed. As climate conditions become hotter and drier, the intensity and frequency of these destructive infernos becomes apparent. But where is this happening?
“What you hear on the news is about California,” said senior Natalie Marrero.
And yes, she’s completely correct. That is what is broadcast and what’s more commonly known about in relation to these ravaging fires because of the devastation California has faced.
But forest fires are actually a problem in a lot of places, and one of them happens to be Florida, where the number of fires increase every year.
“I didn’t know it was getting worse. I guess that’s bad,” said senior Ulysses Morales-Salas.
Florida has seen a flurry of wildfires in the past couple years, yet many residents have no clue. Sea level rise and the loss of precious beachfront seems to be the only problem on a Floridian’s radar. Well, that and when the next football game takes place.
“Honestly, football is what I am focused on,” senior Diego Garcia said.
People don’t realize that the same change in weather they complain about on the daily is doing more than just making them cold, and even that it can lead to mass devastation for the state.
“Maybe with the increase of heat and fluctuating weather, the greenery and plants are drying out,” said senior Natalie Marrero expressing her thoughts on the issue.
And, she is right. With Florida’s already bipolar weather and climate change leading to more drastic temperature fluctuations, the vegetation is starting to dry out. Whereas grass, brush, and vegetation in Florida previously stayed, for the most part, damp due to humidity, it’s now dry. This is an extreme problem because it effects everyone’s heath and safety. These fires release large amounts of greenhouse gasses and harmful smoke particles, and can cause extreme damage to the lung, liver, kidney, heart, and even brain. Constant smoke exposure is a serious issue that can lead to major health problems later in life.
If you ever come into contact with smoke from a large fire, just make sure to beware of these symptoms: Shortness of breath, headaches, continued coughing, difficulty breathing, seizures, confusion, decreased alertness, and fainting spells.
