Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2025

Author Spotlight: Advancing Place-Based Biochar Production for Ecosystem Restoration and Soil Health
Published on: April 5, 2024
The fastest-growing and most destructive fires in the US (2001 to 2020)
Jennifer K Balch1,2, Virginia Iglesias1,3, Adam L Mahood4
1Environmental Data Science Innovation and Inclusion Lab (ESIIL), University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
Abstract:
The most destructive and deadly wildfires in US history were also fast. Using satellite data, we analyzed the daily growth rates of more than 60,000 fires from 2001 to 2020 across the contiguous US. Nearly half of the ecoregions experienced destructive fast fires that grew more than 1620 hectares in 1 day. These fires accounted for 78% of structures destroyed and 61% of suppression costs ($18.9 billion). From 2001 to 2020, the average peak daily growth rate for these fires more than doubled (+249% relative to 2001) in the Western US. Nearly 3 million structures were within 4 kilometers of a fast fire during this period across the US. Given recent devastating wildfires, understanding fast fires is crucial for improving firefighting strategies and community preparedness.
Related Concept Videos
Threats to Biodiversity
Ecological Disturbance
Global Climate Change
Habitat Fragmentation
Hazard Rate
Burn Injuries
The damage results in the death of skin cells, which can lead to a massive loss of fluid. Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and renal and circulatory failure follow, which can be fatal. Burn patients are treated with intravenous fluids to offset...

