State Forestry Predicts Recent Rains Won't Dampen AZ Wildfire Season

By Holliday Moore
Published: Tuesday, March 5, 2019 - 8:49am
Updated: Tuesday, March 5, 2019 - 9:11am

Don't let the recent wave of heavy rainstorms fool you into thinking the upcoming wildfire season will mellow.

Arizona State Forestry Spokeswoman Tiffany Davila said it all depends on the region. Up north, she predicted snowpack will push the wildfire season off by a month.

But, near Tucson, where a 75-acre wildfire broke out over the weekend, the danger will return as sure as the sun shines.

"Those grasses will dry out quickly once we get into the higher temperatures," she warned, and that "will provide a faster fuel, if a fire were to break out."

Fire prevention should be top of mind at any time visiting the wildlands.

There's a lot to think about — fully extinguishing campfires, keeping tailpipes out of high grass areas, and avoiding lighting fires during gusty winds to name a few safety measures.

To help remember, Davila said the forestry department now offers an app for park visitors to download and track the latest active wildfires, dangers and tips to stay safe.

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