Arizona wildfire season is here in full force and this year is projected to be one of the harshest wildfire seasons in decades. Wildfires in Arizona typically start happening in June and can occur for the next five months. However, a variety of environmental conditions has caused the season to start earlier and could make it last longer than normal.
Unfortunately, wildfires can cause a wide variety of personal injuries and property damage. The best way to avoid accidents caused by wildfires is knowing what dangers they pose and being prepared for them. With that in mind, Lerner and Rowe presents a guide on Arizona wildfire season safety.
Why Is the 2022 Arizona Wildfire Season Projected to Be Severe?
There are several reasons why this year is projected to have more wildfires than normal. First, a large heat dome is affecting the weather in western America. A heat dome is a high-pressure system that traps hot air close to the surface while repelling precipitation.
Secondly, Arizona is currently experiencing a severe drought. According to the National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC), nearly 95% of Arizona is under “severe drought” conditions or worse.
Lastly, Arizona summers are typically hot and dry. Those conditions are amplified by the heat dome and drought, which makes wildfires more likely to happen.
What Kinds of Accidents Happen Because of Wildfires?
The most obvious type of injury caused by wildfires is burn injuries. Wildfires can start suddenly and spread rapidly, which poses immediate danger to anyone close by. Even people further away from wildfires may be in danger depending on how quickly the wildfire travels. The smoke and particulates generated by fires can cause serious lung damage and internal organ failure. In extreme cases, burns and smoke inhalation can lead to wrongful death.
Arizona wildfires have already led to many road closures and evacuations. This can create turbulent traffic conditions and low visibility that can lead to car accidents. While Arizona law enforcement typically does a fantastic job at keeping people calm and organized, all it takes is one panicked party to wreak havoc and cause an accident.
While many Arizona wildfires are natural occurrences, some are started by the negligence or recklessness of people. In those cases, the party that started the fire may be held responsible for your injuries. The Arizona wildfire season lawyers at Lerner and Rowe can help you explore your options and get compensated.
Arizona Wildfire Season Resources
With Arizona wildfire frequency expected to be high this year, it’s important to stay up to date with the latest information. Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys highly recommends bookmarking these three websites:
- Arizona Interagency Wildfire Prevention: This page shows a live map of current Arizona wildfires and reported instances. It also links to additional maps and resources if you’d like more information.
- Fire Weather and Avalanche Center: Another map that shows active fires in the state of Arizona, as well as surrounding states.
- National Weather Service: In addition to providing weather updates, the NWS offers current information on other seasonal conditions, such as wildfires and monsoons. Be sure to enter your zip code for the most accurate information for your particular area.
Contact an Arizona Wildfire Season Injury Lawyer
Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys hopes that you and your family stay safe during Arizona wildfire season. Please use the information above to increase your safety and be sure to share it with your friends. Should you get into a wildfire accident and suspect that the cause was man made then give us a call so that we can explore your options.
You can reach Lerner and Rowe 24/7 for a free, no-risk consultation by phone 844-977-1900 or online through LiveChat. Our attorneys have a long track record of winning our clients the highest compensation possible and are committed to helping them carry the emotional burden of an injury so that they can focus on recovery. Contact us today and find out why Lerner and Rowe is one of the most trusted names in Arizona personal injury law.