Dangerous Wildfire Weather Conditions Tripled Globally Since 1979

New study finds hot, dry, and windy days that fuel extreme wildfires have soared worldwide in the past 45 years.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A new study has found that the number of days with weather conditions prone to fueling extreme wildfires has nearly tripled globally since 1979. The research shows a significant increase in hot, dry, and windy days that create dangerous fire-prone conditions, posing growing risks to communities around the world.

Why it matters

As the climate continues to change, the rise in extreme wildfire-friendly weather is a concerning trend that threatens public safety, property, and natural ecosystems in many regions. This underscores the urgent need for improved fire prevention, preparedness, and response strategies to protect vulnerable communities.

The details

The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, analyzed global weather patterns over the past 45 years and found a dramatic increase in the frequency of days with high temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds - the key ingredients for explosive wildfire growth. Researchers say these "fire weather" days have nearly tripled worldwide since 1979, with the most pronounced increases occurring in the western United States, the Amazon, and southern Europe.

  • The study analyzed global weather data from 1979 to 2020.

The players

Nature Communications

A peer-reviewed scientific journal that publishes research on a wide range of topics in the natural sciences.

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The takeaway

This study underscores the growing threat of climate change-driven extreme weather and the urgent need for communities worldwide to bolster their wildfire preparedness and response capabilities to protect lives, property, and the environment.